The Armed Forces of Ukraine are more than tripling the number of its remotely operated troops.

Anticipating further issues with US military assistance, the Ukrainian Army is significantly expanding their unmanned systems and drone usage to compensate for the lack of heavier weaponry.

Announced in February, the new Drone Line program serves as a plan B should peace negotiations fail or if US leadership loses interest in providing further support for Kyiv. Consequently, four drone battalions will be reorganized into regiments, with each regiment expected to increase its numbers from around 700 to 2,500 soldiers equipped with various types of drones.

Through this program’s effectiveness, the Russian army’s advance has nearly ceased: In November 2024, it captured 722 square kilometers, but by March 2025, it managed only 132 square kilometers.

Last year, the Ministry of Defense permitted more than 330 models of Ukrainian-made unmanned systems to enter service, compared to 75 models in 2023. Recently, the Ukrainian army has focused on developing military technologies as an asymmetric response to the enemy’s numerical superiority in personnel and equipment. Currently, over 95% of UAVs deployed at the front are manufactured in Ukraine.