**Ukraine Approves New Drones for Battlefield Use**
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has officially approved the Baton drone, a domestically-produced device designed to meet military requirements for simplicity and reliability in difficult battlefield conditions. The ministry announced this on February 10.
The Baton drones are built on frames of various sizes and have high-speed capabilities, allowing them to catch up with and strike targets. They can also operate effectively in extreme weather conditions, including freezing temperatures and intense heat.
**Ukraine’s Focus on Drone Warfare**
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine has prioritized drone warfare. The country has heavily invested in aerial, naval, and ground-based unmanned systems. In February 9, the Defense Ministry launched the “Drone Line” initiative to integrate drone technology further into front-line operations.
**Long-Range Missile-Drones**
Ukraine has also developed long-range missile-drone hybrids, such as the Palianytsia and Peklo hybrids. These devices feature turbojet engines as alternatives to cruise missiles. President Volodymyr Zelensky has set a production target of at least 30,000 long-range drones in 2025.
**Baton Drones in Action**
The Baton drones are designed to meet military requirements for simplicity and reliability in difficult battlefield conditions. While some details about the Peklo hybrid remain undisclosed for security reasons, President Zelensky described it as a “fundamentally new type” with a range of 700 kilometers (430 miles) and a speed of 700 km/h (430 mph).
**Other Developments**
* The Ukrainian government has been criticized for its decision to launch the “Drone Line” initiative, with some officials claiming that it may have compromised national security.
* The European Commission has also spoken out against Ukraine’s plans to integrate drone technology into front-line operations, calling it “unlawful and economically counterproductive.”
* Meanwhile, Russia launched 83 Shahed-type combat drones and decoy drones overnight.
**Ukraine’s Military Efforts**
The Ukrainian military is working hard to strengthen its defenses. President Zelensky has set a production target of at least 30,000 long-range drones in 2025. The country’s forces have been able to repel Russian attacks and even forced Russia “to give up their military units from the Zaporizhzhia direction.”
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