Ukraine defence adviser: Most Russian drones produced days before launch PHOTO

Most of the Iranian-designed Shahed attack drones used by Russia in strikes on Ukrainian cities were manufactured only days before being launched, according to Serhii Beskrestnov, an adviser to Ukraine's Minister of Defence known by the callsign "Flash."

Beskrestnov said analysis of recovered drone components indicates that the majority of Shahed drones were produced between five and 15 days before their deployment against targets across Ukraine. One of the latest drones used in a strike on the northeastern city of Kharkiv was reportedly manufactured just a few days before launch, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media. 

The findings suggest a rapid production-to-deployment cycle as Russia continues its aerial campaign against Ukraine.

Beskrestnov also said that most of the Iskander ballistic missiles examined by Ukrainian specialists carry production markings from 2025. Based on available data, he estimated that Russia may currently possess a stockpile of between 180 and 250 Iskander missiles.

In addition, he noted that Zircon hypersonic missiles and S-400 missile systems recovered or identified by Ukrainian forces also bear markings indicating production this year.

By Sabina Mammadli