An extensive network of drone production facilities, some of which are reportedly located underground, has been developed by Ukraine in order to protect critical parts of its defense industry from Russian strikes.
A report by Sky News brought to light one such facility, in which, according to the British network, production continues on a 24-hour basis and can exceed 200 drones daily.
The factory reportedly manufactures, among others, the long-range FP-1, a UAV that has acquired particular significance for Ukrainian operations deep behind the front line.
Sky News entered the «sanctum» of the Ukrainian drone industry
Correspondent Stuart Ramsay visited the facility and described a factory where technicians, welders, carpenters, assemblers, and scientists work incessantly.
According to the report, this specific unit constitutes part of a broader effort by Ukraine to drastically increase the production of long-range unmanned aerial vehicles.
The exact location of the facility was not made public for security reasons.
The FP-1 at the center – Range reportedly reaching 3,000 kilometers
Particular reference is made to the FP-1, for which the manufacturer claims it can cover distances of up to 3,000 kilometers.
Such types of drones have acquired a central role in the war, as they can be used in operations very far from the front line.
Their mass production constitutes now one of the most important sectors of the Ukrainian defense industry.
Why production moved underground
The use of underground spaces is not considered accidental.
Following repeated Russian strikes against Ukrainian military and industrial facilities, the need to protect production became critical.
Old industrial facilities from the Soviet period often possess extensive underground sections, which can be used or adapted for different production needs.
Retired Colonel Mikhail Timoshenko, speaking to NEWS.ru, argued that the creation of such facilities in Ukraine is technically completely feasible, although he expressed reservations about whether the network is as large as presented in certain publications.
«Garage production» – Why drones can be built almost anywhere
Unlike complex weapon systems, the assembly of several types of drones can take place in relatively small facilities.
This constitutes a major advantage for Ukraine, as production can be dispersed across many different locations instead of concentrating exclusively in huge factories.
Decentralized production simultaneously makes it difficult to completely neutralize the country's industrial capacity with a single strike.
Russian reports of strikes on underground facilities
At the same time, Russian sources claim that attacks have already been carried out against underground Ukrainian facilities.
Recently it was reported that Russian forces struck an underground facility in the region of Kherson, which was reportedly used by the «Birds of Magyar» unit, as well as an ammunition depot.
The drone battle changes the character of the war
The number of UAVs used daily by both sides has increased dramatically, turning drones into one of the core weapons of the conflict.
From small FPVs operating near the front line to long-range unmanned aircraft, production has evolved into a real industrial race.
Mikhail Timoshenko argued that the danger for Russia is real, pointing out the repeated attacks with large numbers of unmanned aircraft.
«Factory war» far from the front line
The conflict is no longer confined to trenches and military positions.
Behind the front, an equally critical second race unfolds: which side can produce more drones, better protect its facilities, and maintain an uninterrupted supply chain.
The transfer of parts of production to underground or camouflaged spaces constitutes a characteristic example of this new reality.
Kyiv's major gamble
For Kyiv, drones have become one of the most important means to offset Russian superiority in other arms sectors.
The capability to produce hundreds of UAVs daily can offer significant operational flexibility, particularly provided production remains dispersed and protected.
The exact size of the Ukrainian underground network remains unknown and several of the figures circulating cannot be independently confirmed.
However, the picture emerging is clear: beneath the surface of Ukraine, an unseen industrial war is now underway, with drones standing at the center of the battle for who will acquire the technological and production advantage.
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