**Ukraine Approves Domestic Drone for Combat Use**
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has approved the use of a domestically produced drone system called “Bird of Prey” for combat operations. This decision was announced on March 26.
The Bird of Prey system is designed to be effective against enemy vehicles and fortified positions. It is equipped with payloads that can strike heavy equipment like tanks, armored personnel carriers, and self-propelled artillery. The Ministry said that the drone has already proven its effectiveness in destroying enemy armor and fortified firing positions.
**Expanding Drone Production**
Ukraine has been expanding its domestic drone production over the past year. This includes integrating drones into reconnaissance and combat operations. In February, the Defense Ministry launched an initiative called “Drone Line” to speed up the deployment of drones on the battlefield.
The country has also developed long-range missile-drone hybrids, including the Palianytsia and Peklo models. These drones use turbojet engines as alternatives to cruise missiles. President Volodymyr Zelensky has set a target of producing at least 30,000 long-range drones in 2025.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com