Russia to increase production of Shahed drones in 2025 – Institute for the Study of War

Russia has not yet overcome the limitations in its ability to produce and use Shahed drones. The aggressor country is likely to continue struggling with these limitations in 2025, reports the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

The Institute has previously noted signs that Western sanctions are complicating Russia’s ability to obtain high-quality components for Shahed drones, and the aggressor is increasingly relying on low-quality Chinese engines to power these types of drones.

At the same time, Ukrainian innovations in the field of electronic warfare are also allowing the Ukrainian Armed Forces to more effectively repel attacks from heavy Shahed drones.

The ISW predicts that Russian forces will likely continue to adjust their strike packages throughout the winter of 2024-2025 to cause significant damage to Ukraine’s energy system and critical infrastructure.

“Russia likely intends to further increase its production and use of Shahed drones following the anticipated signing of the Russian-Iranian Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement in January 2025,” the Institute for the Study of War notes.

Russia increases the production of Shahed drones

According to CNN, a Russian Shahed drone production plant in the special economic zone Alabuga (Tatarstan) doubled the number of drones produced between January and September this year, compared to the same period in 2023.

Meanwhile, the serial numbers on the bodies of downed Shahed drones have reached 12,000.

According to American media, ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration, Russia and Iran may sign a new Strategic Partnership Agreement.

Around a quarter of all weapon supplies from Iran to Russia are provided by Iranian businessman Hossein Shamkhani.