10:33 12-11-2025

Russia Forms Independent Drone Forces Within Armed Forces

Russia has officially formed its Drone Forces as a new branch of the Armed Forces. The command structure is fully operational, with units deployed nationwide and integrated into combat operations.

Russia has officially established its Drone Forces as an independent branch within the country’s Armed Forces. The announcement was made by Deputy Chief of the new formation Sergey Ishtuganov in an interview with Komsomolskaya Pravda.

Ishtuganov explained that the Drone Forces have been created as a separate direction within the military structure, with their organization now fully defined and command established at all levels. According to him, the new branch already includes regiments and supporting units, operating under a unified management system.

He noted that command centers for drone operations have been set up across Russia, ensuring effective coordination and integration with other branches of the armed forces. The unmanned systems units are actively engaged in combat operations and function according to a single operational plan, synchronized with other military groupings.

Sergey Ishtuganov previously served as deputy commander of the 31st Separate Guards Air Assault Brigade of the Airborne Forces. In December 2022, he was awarded the title of Hero of Russia by President Vladimir Putin and received the Golden Star medal.