Rapidly Escalating Russian Drone Production: Insights from Colonel Reisner
"Drones production by Russians increases in speed"
In a candid interview, Colonel Markus Reisner sheds light on the surge in Russian drone attacks on Ukraine's frontline.
Russian Drone Attacks on Ukraine
ntv.de: Colonel Reisner, recent reports indicate a significant increase in Russian drone attacks on Ukraine, with over 350 incidents in the past 24 hours. Is this escalation due to a shift in their strategy?
Markus Reisner: The heavier bombardment can be attributed to the Russians' increased production rate of drones, combined with their low shoot-down rate. While Ukraine successfully defends against a substantial number of attacking drones, their defense against cruise missiles and Iskander rockets is insufficient to avoid significant damage.
Geran-2 Drone Production
The Ghareb-2, with dimensions surpassing 3 meters in length and 2 meters in width, is a large drone. Its predecessor, the Shahed-136, was initially supplied by Iran to Russia. Is Russia now capable of producing drones of this quality and range in large quantities?
Colonel Reisner explains that the Russians are now producing Geran-2 drones at a remarkable pace, with an output of 6,000 units anticipated by September 2025. Current daily production ranges between 300 to 350 units.
Enhancements in Drone Capabilities
Furthermore, Russia has been enhancing its drones, such as the Shahed-136, with more lethal warheads. Reports suggest that these drones now carry warheads weighing up to 90 kilograms, both in Iranian and domestic production.
Potential for Further Increases
If Russia increases its production rate to up to 500 drones per day, it could pose a constant threat of mass strategic air attacks for Ukraine, given the escalating attacks on the entire front line.
Criticism from the Ukrainian Side
Videos from the front line often reveal soldiers in small strongholds desperately defending under continuous artillery fire and drones attacks, expressing their distress over senseless orders and the lack of a clear strategic picture from the Ukrainian General Staff. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding mobilization and the low strength of troops compared to the Russian forces.
Symmetry and Asymmetry in the War
The persistent drone attacks from the Russian side have prompted questions about Ukraine's ability to counter these capabilities. The most well-known weapon system to defend against the Geran-2 is the German Gepard anti-aircraft tank; however, its range is limited. Meanwhile, efforts are being made to acquire medium and high-range air defense weapons, although the required ammunition is expensive and in limited supply.
Reacting to the Drone Threat
Both Russia and Ukraine are developing counter-drone measures, including combat tech and tactics. The Ukrainians are working on using helicopters, old propeller planes, and even counter-drone drones to combat the mass drone attacks. This approach aims to neutralize the continuous threat posed by Russian drones.
Source: ntv.de
Keywords:
Attack on Ukraine, Donbass, Drones, Russia, Ceasefire, Debate on weapons deliveries, Kremlin
- The increased production rate of drones in Russia, such as the Geran-2, could potentially lead to employment opportunities in the EC countries' aerospace industry, as they strive to develop counter-drone measures.
- The finance sector might face challenges due to the escalating Russian drone attacks on Ukraine, as increased defense spending and potential economic instability could impact the national economy of Europe.
- The French gadgets and technology industry could capitalize on the Ukrainian military's demand for advanced electronics, including medium and high-range air defense weapons, to counter the drone threat from Russia.
