Russia centralizes drone management — what does this mean for the war?

This is stated in the report by analysts from the Institute for the Study of War, reports ISW.

Russia Actively Creates Drone System Regiments

The Ukrainian volunteer initiative Victory Drones reported back in April 2024 that Russia was completing the establishment of the 7th separate reconnaissance and strike drone regiment as part of the Central Military District.

According to the organization, as of April, this regiment was staffed at 94% and included 1,342 servicemen. The military personnel were trained at the base of the 473rd regional training center of the Russian Federation, and the structure of the unit included a command staff, strike and reconnaissance drone battalions, as well as support units such as communications, medical, and repair teams.

Where Newly Created Drone Regiments Might Operate

Analysts estimate that the formation of the 7th drone regiment includes the creation of 102 units, of which 41 are strike units and 61 are reconnaissance units. It is known that starting in July 2024, Russian volunteer groups began fundraising to support this regiment and disseminated information about its potential involvement in combat operations in the temporarily occupied territory of the Zaporizhzhia region.

Impact on Combat Operations at the Front

Russian military bloggers noted in the fall of 2024 that the Russian Ministry of Defense began reorganizing unofficial drone operator squads into "united technical battalions," which also included communicators, engineers, and medics. Additionally, in October 2024, the military leadership of Russia announced through the Center for Advanced Drone Technologies "Rubikon" the formation of several more separate drone units.

According to Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov, the Russian army plans to complete the establishment of Drone Forces by the third quarter of 2025. Analysts believe that after the reorganization, Russian military personnel will be able to use drones more effectively in combat operations if they manage to centralize procurement and implement necessary reforms. However, the realization of these plans will depend on the availability of resources and the capabilities of the Russian defense industry.

Recall that recently Russia attacked Kharkiv with drones. Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of Ukraine explained how drones affect the front on combat operations.