On October 29, 2026, it became known that Russia is actively increasing the production of drones and missiles in preparation for potential winter attacks. According to the advisor to the President of Ukraine on defense technologies, Serhiy Beskrestnov, up to 3,000 reactive drones named "Shahed" and about 700 missiles called "Geran-5" are produced each month. This news raises serious concerns in Ukraine and beyond.
Speed and Technology of New Drones
The Russian "Geran-5" drones demonstrate impressive characteristics, particularly the ability to accelerate to 1,000 km/h during maneuvers. This significantly exceeds the speed of previous models, such as the "Geran-3," which had a speed of 280–300 km/h. Furthermore, Russia is actively developing drones equipped with artificial intelligence that can autonomously locate and attack targets such as trains and warehouses without operator involvement.
Production Capacities and Strategies
Russia is focusing on the mass production of cheap drones and missiles, including "Banderol," "Geran-5," "Dan-T," and "Dan-M." This indicates the Kremlin's intentions to continue its aggressive policies and enhance its military capabilities. According to Beskrestnov, even an additional mobilization of 300,000 Russians will not fundamentally change the situation at the front, as Ukraine already has a private air defense system managed exclusively by military personnel.
Impact of Starlink Restrictions on Ukrainian Drones
The speed restrictions imposed by the Starlink system, according to the advisor, have negatively affected Ukrainian interceptor drones and military helicopters but have not hindered the ability to attack Russian oil refineries. The Ukrainian side is trying to determine who made the decision regarding these restrictions and for what purpose.