In Ukraine, two unmanned systems battalions have been formed in each operational-tactical brigade

In each brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Territorial Defense Forces, two battalions have been formed, designated for the operation of unmanned aerial systems and ground-based robotic systems.

As a result, the Territorial Defense Forces units have enhanced their capabilities in the use of unmanned and robotic systems.

What is known?

Plakhuuta briefed the guests on changes in enemy operations and how Territorial Defense Forces units are adapting in response. Specifically, this involves strengthening the unmanned component and implementing new technologies.

“Our task is not simply to react to changes in the nature of war, but to stay ahead of them and develop new combat capabilities,” said the commander.

According to Plakhuta, the Ground Forces’ unmanned capabilities were initially concentrated in the 411th Battalion, which later became a regiment and supported units across various sectors of the front. After its transfer to the Unmanned Systems Forces, the approach was revised: drone and ground robot units began to be developed directly within the TrO brigades.

This gives the brigades their own capabilities for aerial reconnaissance, engaging detected targets, and logistics using ground-based robotic systems, Plakhuta explained. According to his assessment, unmanned systems now account for nearly half of the Combat Support Forces’ combat capabilities.

A notable example of this transformation is the former 123rd Tactical Operations Brigade, which has been reorganized into a separate unmanned systems brigade.

The briefing was another meeting between the Territorial Defense Forces Command and representatives of the Military Attaché Office. The military attachés were briefed on the development of innovations within the Territorial Defense Forces in accordance with the decisions of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The parties also discussed the experience of volunteer units in local communities, the organization of national resistance, and opportunities to strengthen the Territorial Defense Forces through cooperation with partner countries. Plakhuta thanked them for their assistance to the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

Major General Ihor Plakhuta, Commander of the Territorial Defense Forces, spoke about this at a briefing for military attachés and diplomats from the Kyiv Association of Military Attachés (KAMA).
 

Ukraine has developed the Zorelit v5, a drone designed to intercept Shahed jet-powered drones.

Nine officers in the Territorial Defense Forces have completed training for command positions.

Earlier, on September 13, 2026, Brigadier General Denys “Redis” Prokopenko assumed the duties of commander of the “Azov” military group. 

Andriy Biletsky, commander of the Third Army Corps, will lead the new “Center” military group, which will serve as a temporary command structure for the Defense Forces and will be responsible for the defense of a significant portion of the Donetsk region.