Russia Boosts Drone Production by 16.9% in May, Responding to Putin’s Call

In May 2025, Russia‘s drone production surged by 16.9% compared to April, driven by President Vladimir Putin’s directive to ramp up output for military operations in Ukraine, according to a report from the Centre for Macroeconomic Analysis and Short-Term Forecasting, reports Reuters. This significant increase highlights Russia’s push to enhance its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities amid escalating battlefield demands.

Surge in Russian Drone Output

The May production spike far outpaced the average monthly growth of 3.7% over the prior five months, with output reaching 1.6 times the 2024 monthly average. Putin noted in April that Russia produced over 1.5 million drones in 2024, including approximately 4,000 first-person view (FPV) drones, which are lightweight, agile models used for precision strikes. “Troops fighting on the front line in Ukraine needed more,” Putin stated, emphasizing the shortfall in supply for ongoing operations.

FPV Drones, typically weighing a few pounds and equipped with real-time video feeds, enable operators to target assets with high accuracy, often at ranges up to 6 miles (10 kilometers). The production increase likely focuses on these models, which have become critical for both Russia and Ukraine in reconnaissance and targeted attacks beyond front lines.

Strategic and Technological Implications

Russia’s intensified drone production reflects a broader trend in modern warfare, where UAVs play a pivotal role in gaining tactical advantages. Both nations have deployed drones extensively, striking targets like oil depots and airfields deep within enemy territory. The report underscores Russia’s response to this dynamic, prioritizing scalable, cost-effective drone systems over traditional manned aircraft.

To counter Ukrainian drone strikes, which have hit sites as far as 1,860 miles (3,000 kilometers) from Kyiv, Russia is developing a laser-based anti-drone defense system. This technology aims to neutralize incoming UAVs by disrupting their navigation or physically destroying them, addressing vulnerabilities exposed by frequent attacks on critical infrastructure.

Industry and Operational Challenges

Despite the production boost, Russia faces hurdles in sustaining this growth. Western sanctions limit access to advanced electronic components, forcing reliance on domestic or alternative suppliers, which may compromise drone performance. Ukrainian assessments have noted reduced reliability in some Russian drones, with technical failures occurring before targets are reached.

Economically, the rapid expansion of drone manufacturing strains Russia’s defense budget, already stretched by ongoing conflict costs. The Centre’s data suggests that while May’s output was a significant leap, maintaining this pace will require substantial investment in production facilities and supply chains. Russia has opened 15 UAV production centers since January 2025, with plans for 48 by 2035, indicating a long-term commitment to dominating the drone sector.

Looking Ahead

The 16.9% production increase positions Russia to intensify its drone operations, potentially shifting battlefield dynamics in Ukraine. However, the effectiveness of these drones will depend on overcoming technical and logistical challenges. For drone professionals, this development signals the growing importance of scalable UAV production and advanced countermeasures in modern conflicts. As Russia aims to produce 3 to 4 million drones in 2025, per industry estimates, the global Drone Industry will closely watch how these advancements influence warfare and defense strategies.