Russia gives drones their own military branch as modern warfare enters a new era
Russia has established a dedicated military branch for unmanned systems, appointing General Denis Lyamin to lead the new force. This move reflects the increasing importance of drone warfare in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, where both nations are expanding their long-range strike and reconnaissance capabilities.
Why it matters
The formalization of drone warfare as a distinct military branch signals a permanent shift in modern combat doctrine.
Russia has formally placed its new unmanned systems forces under a dedicated commander, marking a major shift in how Moscow is organising for modern warfare as drones become an increasingly central part of the battlefield.General Denis Lyamin assumed charge of the newly established branch on Friday after defence minister Andrei Belousov signed the order formally installing him in the post, the Russian defence ministry said.Earlier this month, Putin announced Lyamin’s appointment and described the general as “one of the most qualified specialists” to lead the new drone forces and tasked him with completing their formation. Lyamin had previously served as chief of staff of Russia’s Centre Group of Forces fighting in Ukraine.
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