Ukrainian authorities have declared the commencement of large-scale manufacturing for a new domestically developed defensive UAV to strengthen its aerial protection systems. Three initial manufacturers have begun manufacturing, with 11 more preparing to set up assembly lines, Ukrainian military officials stated on Friday.
'Octopus' Technology Proven in Combat Situations
These UAVs will be based on a nationally created technology called “Octopus” designed to intercept Iranian-made drones. This technology underwent testing in actual battle and proved effective “at night, amid electronic warfare and at low altitudes,” the ministry confirmed. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has set a target of manufacturing as many as 1,000 defensive drones daily.
Latest Attack on the Capital Described as Calculated
The Ukrainian president characterized Russia’s latest attack on Ukraine as “deliberate, premeditated and brutal” following six individuals lost their lives and dozens wounded in a wave of nocturnal attacks across Kyiv. Air raid sirens activated in Kyiv just after midnight on Friday, with enemy UAVs quickly heard overhead and heavy machine-gun fire from Ukraine's aerial protection units.
Zelenskyy reported the country was hit by 430 drones and multiple missiles. The deceased were at home in a block of flats on the capital's left bank when it was hit. Dozens of other buildings sustained damage, among them the Azerbaijani embassy.
International Protest After Diplomatic Compound Destruction
Azerbaijan said it issued a formal objection to Moscow's diplomatic representative on Friday after the destruction at its diplomatic compound. An explosion from a Russian Iskander missile demolished part of the embassy’s perimeter wall and resulted in serious damage to the embassy grounds, the Azerbaijani foreign ministry reported. There were no personnel injured, and an official representative said the diplomatic mission in Ukraine was continuing to operate.
Moscow's Glide Bomb Production Experiences Major Expansion
Moscow intends to manufacture up to 120,000 guided aerial bombs in the current year, a high-ranking Ukrainian defense official said, including 500 of a new, longer-range version that can reach additional urban centers. Moscow's military were firing 200 to 250 aerial bombs per day, with last month’s average daily usage being about 170, based on official military statistics.
Ukrainian Attacks Target Moscow's Oil Facilities
Moscow's Black Sea port of Novorossiysk temporarily suspended oil exports this past Friday – representing 2% of worldwide oil production – after a strike by Ukrainian forces. Military commanders in Kyiv stated its military had launched Neptune cruise missiles and used multiple kinds of strike drones in the assault against Novorossiysk “within the framework of efforts to reduce the strategic capabilities of the Russian aggressor.”
Ukraine separately struck a processing plant in the Saratov area and an energy depot in the adjacent Engels region during the night.
Global Restrictions Impact Moscow's Oil Producer
The number two oil producer Lukoil announced this past Friday it has been in talks with potential buyers concerning its foreign assets following last month’s sanctions from the UK and the US and the collapse of a deal with commodity trader Gunvor. “Final arrangements will be announced after conclusive negotiations are completed and required authorizations are secured,” the company commented.
Zelenskyy Plans Visit to Spanish Capital
Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to travel to the Spanish capital, Madrid, on Tuesday to meet with parliament members a day after his trip to France, the chamber of deputies announced. The Ukrainian president will convene with representatives from both chambers of the legislature during his visit, an official announcement confirmed.
