Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation believes that technological advancements, particularly in drones and robotic weaponry, could significantly reduce the number of soldiers needed on the front lines, potentially cutting the number in half. This strategy prioritizes preserving the lives of both military personnel and civilians while simultaneously increasing the country’s chances of victory.
Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation, Oleksandr Bornyakov, announced at the Odesa Economic Revival Forum that this concept is already being tested on training grounds. The aim is to replace humans with robotic devices on the battlefield.
“Analysts estimate that today, on average, 70 people are needed in trenches per 1-2 kilometers. Using unmanned systems, robotic systems for mining, demining, electronic warfare, and other devices, we can reduce this number to 30,” stated Bornyakov.
He emphasized the rapid growth of Ukraine’s defense technology sector since the full-scale war began, largely driven by private companies. The number of drone manufacturers has skyrocketed from just three at the beginning of 2022 to 700 today. Similarly, the number of companies producing electronic warfare equipment has increased from seven to 120. There are also dozens of developments in demining based on artificial intelligence, with almost no state-owned enterprises among these manufacturers.
This focus on technological innovation underscores Ukraine’s commitment to winning the war and reclaiming its territories while minimizing human casualties. By leveraging drones, robotics, and AI, Ukraine aims to create a more efficient and less dangerous battlefield, ultimately leading to a faster and more decisive victory.
Based on materials from RBC-Ukraine
