Russia is spending enormous amounts of money on producing jet-powered drones used to attack Ukraine, as these weapons are particularly expensive, Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said during a television broadcast.
Asked whether Russia's capacity to produce jet-powered drones could eventually be exhausted, Ihnat said the key factors were Russia's manufacturing capabilities and financial resources.
"The question is what this capacity depends on. It depends on production and on Russia having the money to manufacture these expensive drones. They are not cheap, and the jet engine is one of their most expensive components. Russia is spending enormous sums on these weapons," Ihnat said.
He noted that Ukraine is actively working on developing jet-powered interceptor drones and other countermeasures.
"We are also seeing other systems emerge, such as automated gun turrets. We are counting on an aviation component as well, which — without going into details — could further strengthen the protection of our skies against this threat," the spokesperson said.
Ihnat stressed that assistance from international partners remains critically important.
"We have air defence personnel who can achieve extraordinary results even under limited conditions. The only thing we lack is the necessary equipment, while Russian forces continue to expand their capabilities. Every month, the number of jet-powered UAVs used against Ukraine increases, as does the number of Banderoľ drones," he said.
According to Ihnat, Ukraine already has highly experienced and dedicated air defence personnel but urgently needs additional weapons and equipment.
Commenting on efforts to increase the production of surface-to-air and air-launched missiles in Europe, he emphasised that every contribution from partner countries is particularly valuable at this stage.
"I have already said that Russia has the economic capacity to manufacture expensive UAVs and missiles. This is also a question of sanctions and other measures. Ukraine is doing its homework, so to speak. These are our long-range sanctions — Russian oil refineries burning so that Russia can sell less diesel fuel and so on," Ihnat said.
He added that Ukraine expects an appropriate response from its partners, including stronger sanctions against Russia to reduce its ability to manufacture weapons used in attacks.
