'I command a Ukrainian regiment - these essential weapons are our eyes on the frontline'

One of the Ukrainian military's rising stars says drones have "no real alternatives" on the modern battlefield. Captain Yurii 'Achilles' Fedorenko, commander of one of Ukraine's five elite drone units, told the Express the unmanned weapons were initially a "forced necessity" but are now "an integral component of modern warfare".

Drones have become a crucial part of the Ukraine war, with hundreds now being launched on a daily basis. Ukrainian military chiefs estimate unmanned weapons account for around 70% of all casualties on both sides of the conflict - more than all other weapons combined. Capt Fedorenko commands 429th Unmanned Systems Regiment, also known as 'Achilles', which evolved from a volunteer rifle company in 2022 to a dedicated UAV regiment.

The unit has played a key role in defending Kyiv and the liberation of Kharkiv during the three-and-a-half year war.

"Above all, drones are our eyes: they allow us to see the enemy both on the frontline and deep in the rear," said Captain Fedorenko.

"This enables us to anticipate enemy intentions and act proactively."

The battle-hardened commander said they use drones to wipe out Russian targets, including armoured vehicles, artillery, logistics routes and air defence systems, as well as for logistics and mining.

"In short, drones reduce the likelihood of further occupation of our territories and help save the lives of both soldiers and civilians," said Capt Fedorenko, 34, who is considered one of the best emerging talents in Ukraine's armed forces.

He said drones have "permanently become part of combat operations", adding: "They will continue to be used, as their cost-effectiveness and efficiency have no real alternatives."

In June, the UK announced more than £4billion in funding for autonomous systems, including UAVs, following the Strategic Defence Review.

Capt Fedorenko's regiment is one of five frontline drone units being bolstered by a new donations app set up by Ukraine's official fundraising platform and the country's digital transformation ministry.

He claimed those donating funds are helping with the "defence of global democracy".

It comes as Ukraine said Russia launched its biggest attack of the war so far in the early hours of Sunday morning, firing 805 combat drones and 14 missiles.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as "ruthless" as peace talks continue to make slower-than-hoped progress.