Archive · 5 Oct 2026
Ukraine Deploys AI Robot Guns Against Faster Russian Drones
Russia is using some faster drones to attack Ukraine.
Ukraine says it has placed special robotic guns in Kyiv to help stop them.
The guns use cameras and artificial intelligence to spot and target drones.
A Ukrainian air force spokesman said they have already brought down some drones, including a faster model called Geran-5.
A technology adviser said 12 of the guns are working in Kyiv, and more may be added.
They can only work over a limited distance and need suitable conditions.
Ukraine says they are one part of a larger air-defence system, not a complete solution.
Ukraine says AI-enabled robotic turrets have been installed in Kyiv to target Russian drones.
Air force spokesman Colonel Yuri Ignat said the turrets have already shot down drones, including the faster Geran-5.
The systems use optical vision and artificial intelligence to control machine guns with limited human involvement.
Technology adviser Sergiy Beskrestnov said 12 turrets are operational in Kyiv, with more planned.
Ignat said the turrets work within about one kilometre under favourable conditions and are only one part of Ukraine’s air defences.
- Who
- Ukraine’s air force and defence technology officials described the deployment.
- What
- AI-enabled robotic turrets are being used to shoot down Russian drones.
- When
- The air force confirmed the deployment on Monday, October 5; the year is not stated.
- Where
- Kyiv, Ukraine, including bridges where the turrets are being installed.
- Why
- To help counter newer, faster Russian jet-powered drones that are harder to intercept.
Potential capability
Limitations
Role in countering drones
Potential capability
Ukraine’s officials say the turrets have already shot down drones, including the faster Geran-5.
Limitations
Ignat cautioned that the system has a limited operating radius, depends on favourable conditions, and is not a complete solution.
- Operational turrets
- 12 were reported operational in Kyiv by technology adviser Sergiy Beskrestnov.
- Reported targets
- The air force spokesman said drones, including the Geran-5, had been shot down.
- Operating range
- About one kilometre plus, according to Colonel Yuri Ignat.
- Technology
- Optical vision and artificial intelligence control the robotic turrets.
- Deployment sites
- Ignat said robotic turrets were being installed on bridges.
- Limitations
- They operate under favourable conditions and are part of a broader, layered air-defence system.