Syrskyi: Ukrainian drone units eliminate more Russian troops in January than Russia mobilizes

Ukrinform reports this, citing Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, who shared the update on Facebook following the monthly meeting on the development of drone systems, their combat missions, and the use of new technologies in this field.

“This war for Ukraine’s independence has become a contest of technologies, and drone systems play a leading role in it. The side that gains and applies technological superiority on the battlefield will win,” Syrskyi said.

He emphasized: “We are on the right path. In January, drone units of the Ukrainian Defense Forces reduced the Russian army by almost 29,700 personnel, while the enemy managed to recruit only 22,000 in the same period.”

“This is the difference we aim for: eliminating more soldiers than Russia can deploy. This is the effectiveness of our drones, which, if further strengthened, will force Moscow to end its aggressive war,” Syrskyi added.

He noted that in January, unmanned aerial units struck 66,200 Russian targets. Ground robotic units carried out nearly a quarter more missions than in December, and Ukraine continues to maintain a technological edge in using FPV drones.

“At the same time, in many areas, the enemy is at least keeping pace in drone deployment,” Syrskyi said.

According to a report by the Defense Intelligence Directorate, Russia plans to increase its drone forces by 79,000 personnel this year, bringing the total size of Russian drone troops to 165,000.

The Russians have already deployed their own interceptor drones, are expanding production, and are testing combat-use models such as the Geran-4 and Geran-5 missiles.

“All of this encourages us to seek revolutionary technological and management solutions faster to counter Russian drones and overcome the enemy’s layered air defense,” Syrskyi emphasized.

He also stated that the drone component of assault troops is being expanded. Additional drone battalions will be added to certain assault regiments. Similarly, the drone capabilities of Territorial Defense brigades are being strengthened.

During the meeting, Syrskyi heard reports from combat units and military management bodies about their experience using drones, modern command approaches in this area, and solutions for technical problems encountered with specific UAV models.

The discussions included new technological innovations and proposals that could be scaled up across the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

“In developing drone systems, we have achievements to be proud of. There are tangible results. I see the dedication of commanders in the drone field. Their unique combat experience and technological application need to be accumulated and shared across the Armed Forces. I have assigned tasks to ensure this,” Syrskyi said.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine thanked everyone involved for their contribution to Ukraine’s drone efforts – for destroying the enemy and advancing victory.

He also expressed gratitude to infantry soldiers from all branches of the Defense Forces who hold positions and eliminate the enemy in close combat.

Previously, Ukrinform reported that in December 2025, Ukrainian drone forces neutralized 33,000 Russian soldiers – roughly the same number Russia recruited that month.

Photo: Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine