Ukraine is at the forefront of military innovation, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into drones and ground-based robotic systems to enhance battlefield efficiency. As the war with Russia continues, AI-powered weaponry is rapidly evolving and so is the future of warfare, says Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation Oleksandr Bornyakov in a new interview.

In 2024, Ukraine made significant strides in AI-driven targeting systems, particularly through machine vision technology. This innovation allows drones and automated turrets to identify and engage targets with greater precision after an operator's initial lock-on. The Ukrainian government has already begun procuring and testing such AI-enhanced drones – but local companies too are developing Ukrainian brand weapons, the official said (pictured below).

Another key development is the introduction of interceptor drones capable of tracking and neutralizing moving targets, such as enemy UAVs. AI is also being used for reconnaissance, mine detection, and battlefield data analysis, providing critical intelligence while minimizing human risk.

By 2025, Ukraine aims to deploy fully functional drone swarms, or "robo-swarms." Current systems can coordinate up to 15 drones, but future advancements could see over 100 working in unison. The vision extends beyond aerial units—integrating drones with ground-based platforms that can communicate, share target data, and operate semi-autonomously.

Ukrainian and international collaboration

Ukraine's defense industry is leading these developments, with domestic companies producing 90% of AI-based military technologies. The innovation hub Brave1 has registered over 200 AI-driven projects, with more than 70 already in use by the military, Bornyakov revealed.

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International partners are also contributing. German firms have developed AI-based artillery correction systems and advanced interceptor drones, while U.S. companies are working on AI-driven swarm control systems that enable a single operator to manage multiple drones simultaneously.

Despite rapid advancements, the regulation of AI in military applications remains largely uncharted territory. Bornyakov emphasizes that AI itself is software and does not fall under existing arms regulations. While civilian AI applications are being prepared for oversight, military use remains unrestricted due to the ongoing war.

While the idea of autonomous warfare has long been the realm of science fiction, Bornyakov suggests it is closer to reality than many believe. In the coming years, AI-powered defense systems may secure entire perimeters without human intervention, neutralizing enemy forces with minimal direct oversight.

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However, challenges remain. AI systems are still vulnerable to electronic warfare and environmental factors. Aerial drones struggle with adverse weather, and ground-based robots face limitations due to terrain obstacles. Efforts are underway to develop communication systems resistant to electronic countermeasures, ensuring uninterrupted AI operations.

Russia-Ukraine war accelerates AI militarization

Before Russia’s full-scale invasion, AI in defense was not a priority in Ukraine or among NATO allies. However, the war has accelerated global interest in AI-driven military technologies. Just as machine guns reshaped combat in World War I by eliminating cavalry, AI and drone technology are redefining modern warfare.

The deputy minister predicts that future AI-based weapons could autonomously identify and eliminate threats based on voice recognition, facial scans, or vehicle license plates.

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As AI becomes more autonomous, he notes, there will arise many questions of accountability, the main one being “Who is responsible for decisions made by AI-driven weapons?”

To address ethical concerns, 14 leading Ukrainian IT firms recently signed a voluntary code of conduct for responsible AI use, he stated, adding that broader legal frameworks will be needed, however, to govern military AI.

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