Russia deploys AI-equipped Shahed drones in Ukraine
Russia deployed Shahed kamikaze drones equipped with artificial intelligence and direct remote control systems in Ukraine for the first time on 18 June 2025. The drones feature built-in cameras and machine vision modules, operable from Russian territory at distances up to 150 kilometers, potentially extended through aerial relays.
What happened
Russia deployed Shahed kamikaze drones equipped with artificial intelligence, built-in cameras, machine vision modules, and direct remote radio control systems for the first time in Ukraine on 18 June 2025.
The drones are equipped with radio modems allowing remote operation from Russian territory at distances up to 150 kilometers from the Russian border or front line, with potential extension through aerial relays over Ukrainian airspace.
Reported impact
Radio electronics warfare specialist Sergiy 'Flash' Beskrestnov warned that without developing interceptor drones, Ukraine may become defenseless against increasingly large-scale Russian attacks.
Index analysis
Information about development of such drones had circulated previously, but the first confirmed deployment of this type of AI-equipped Shahed on Ukrainian territory was recorded on 18 June 2025.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.