FPV drone

Based on available reports from defense ministries, industry announcements, and analyses (e.g., SIPRI, IISS, and OSINT), NATO members collectively produced an estimated 50,000–100,000 military drones in 2024. This includes tactical FPV/reconnaissance models, loitering munitions, and larger ISR/strike systems. Russia, in sharp contrast, in 2024 produced an estimated 1.5–1.8 million drones, encompassing tactical FPV (first-person view) models, long-range strike drones (e.g., Shahed/Geran-136), reconnaissance types (e.g., Orlan-10), and loitering munitions (e.g., Lancet). This marks a 5–10x increase from 2022–2023 levels, with FPV drones comprising the bulk (~80–90%) due to their low cost (~$300–$500/unit) and high attrition rate. Production was decentralized across ~30 federal subjects, with key facilities like Alabuga SEZ in Tatarstan scaling up Shahed output using imported labor and parts.