Kiev to Produce Approximately 1,000 Interceptor Drones Each Day
Ukraine is ramping up its production of interceptor drones to counteract persistent Russian drone attacks, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has set a target for domestic manufacturers to produce at least 1,000 interceptor drones per day.
During a visit to a drone production facility on July 25, 2025, Zelenskyy emphasised the importance of interceptors in safeguarding Ukrainian cities and villages, and underscored Ukraine's capacity to develop advanced defensive technologies.
To achieve this goal, Ukraine has awarded four state contracts totalling over $71 million involving government agencies, private companies, volunteer organisations, and banks. The government is managing contracting processes and working with international partners to ensure consistent financing and avoid shortages.
The increased production capacity will encompass multiple drone interceptor platforms, including ground-based and airborne systems. Ukraine is also expanding specific programs such as the Kyiv “Clear Sky” initiative, which has demonstrated success in intercepting hundreds of enemy drones with a small number of active crews, paving the way for a national-scale rollout.
Financially, Ukraine's Defense Procurement Agency has committed approximately $2.8 billion for tens of thousands of domestically produced interceptor drones in 2025, representing a significant portion of their total defense budget. Ukraine is also acquiring interceptor drones from international partners, including a strategic deal with the American company Swift Beat, whose AI-enhanced drone interceptors are among the most effective against Russian Shahed drones.
Experts predict that Russia may increase its production of unmanned aerial vehicles to up to 1,000 per day in the near future. As such, Ukraine's efforts are both industrial and strategic, involving rapid increases in production capacity, diverse interceptor platforms, and international partnerships to strengthen national air defense amid escalating Russian drone threats.
The plan to boost interception drone production is a significant initiative by Ukraine, with a specific deadline for implementation yet to be announced. As nightly drone attacks continue to claim civilian lives, the urgent need for effective air defense is paramount. Zelenskyy made the announcement in his evening video address, underscoring the gravity of the situation and Ukraine's determination to protect its people and territory.
Technology plays a crucial role in Ukraine's strategy to counteract persistent Russian drone attacks, as the country is ramping up its production of interceptor drones. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's vision for domestic manufacturers is to produce at least 1,000 interceptor drones per day, a aim that requires advanced defensive technologies.
