Russian forces launched approximately 2,400 One Way Attack Uncrewed Aerial Systems (OWA UAS) into Ukraine in January 2025, surpassing the December 2024 total of 1,700.
The UK Ministry of Defence’s latest intelligence update, dated 14 February 2025, states:
“In January 2025, Russia launched approximately 2,400 One Way Attack Uncrewed Aerial Systems (OWA UAS) into Ukraine… Russian strikes primarily targeted energy infrastructure, as well as military targets.”
Analysts also note that “it is likely that Russian monthly OWA UAS launch rates of at least 2,000 will continue to be the standard expectation through 2025.”
While countering these unmanned aerial systems is described as “challenging,” the update highlights two separate Ukrainian attacks—on 26 January 2025 and 06 February 2025—against “known Russian OWA UAS operational sites.”
The intelligence update underscores “Russia’s inability to protect military sites from Ukrainian UAS attack,” citing observed damage at both locations.
The newly published report follows previous UK assessments that emphasise Russia’s focus on disrupting Ukraine’s power grid and military targets through sustained drone usage.
Despite the elevated number of strikes, Ukrainian forces continue to launch countermeasures aimed at reducing Russian operational capabilities and defending key infrastructure against ongoing incursions.
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