Strike copter type UAVs made up the largest category, with 238 new models codified during the period. The ministry described them as relatively inexpensive, high precision weapons intended to strike enemy personnel and equipment on the front line.
A further 231 UAVs equipped with fibre optic control links were authorised for use. The ministry said their main advantage is resistance to enemy electronic warfare systems.
Ukraine’s arsenal also expanded with 42 new interceptor drone models. The ministry said these systems play an important role in modern air defence by destroying hostile drones effectively at a relatively low cost.
The Ministry of Defence has also codified 32 middle strike UAVs so far this year. These systems are designed to strike targets in the enemy’s operational rear, including logistics.
Nine deep strike drone models were additionally authorised for use by the Defence Forces. According to the ministry, drones in this category can strike deep inside Russian territory and are intended to raise the cost of the war against Ukraine for the enemy.
The drone approvals are part of a wider expansion of weapons and military equipment available to the Defence Forces. In the first eight months of 2026, the Ministry of Defence codified and authorised 1,526 new weapons and military equipment models, nearly 91% of which were manufactured in Ukraine.
Source: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
