ISW: Russian military considers creating separate unmanned systems service

Russian military officials are exploring the possibility of establishing a separate unmanned systems service within the Russian Armed Forces.

US-based think tank Institute for the Study of War (ISW) revealed the matter in its latest assessment of the Russian military campaign, Caliber.Az reports.

During his visit to Kazakhstan on November 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced at a press conference that the Russian Ministry of Defence and General Staff are considering the creation of a new unmanned systems service within the Russian military. Putin emphasized the critical role of drones in modern warfare, calling them one of the key factors in conducting combat operations.

A military blogger with connections to Russia's Airborne Forces explained that, currently, Russian drone units are not officially organized but are instead integrated into other military units. These units are performing various tasks, such as conducting assault operations and carrying out medical and engineering functions.

Putin also praised Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, crediting him as the key figure behind the potential creation of this unmanned systems service. Putin described Belousov as a "modern defence minister" for his leadership in this initiative.

The report also highlighted that Belousov has faced significant criticism from Russia's ultranationalist military bloggers due to his perceived failure to adequately address the high number of Russian drone operators and assault specialists killed in Ukraine.

ISW analysts suggest that Putin’s praise of Belousov may be an effort to restore his image among ultranationalist circles and military personnel in Russia.

An insider source in the Kremlin has indicated that establishing this new unmanned systems service could take Shoigu anywhere from six months to a year. This process would involve several reforms, expanding educational programs, introducing new military specialities, and incorporating volunteer projects into the Russian Ministry of Defense structure.

Notably, in August 2024, Belousov established the "Rubikon" Center for Advanced Unmanned Technologies, based at an undisclosed unmanned aviation unit. This centre seems to be part of the Ministry of Defence's efforts to develop the necessary unmanned systems and educational infrastructure for the proposed service.

Additionally, on November 29, Belousov visited the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) on an official visit.

By Tamilla Hasanova