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Russia is testing new fast jet-powered drones near its borders
Military experts say Russia is building new bases to launch speedier drones, but they likely won't replace the older models just yet.
A dark, jet-powered drone in flight, representing Russia's new BM-35 drone technology.
By John Doe
Reporting from Ukraine 
Aug. 18, 2026, 3:49 a.m. - 7 hours ago
Russia is making moves to upgrade its drone fleet. New reports show the country has set up ten secret bases near its borders. From these spots, they plan to launch a new type of jet-powered drone, known as the BM-35.
These drones are much faster than the older models Russia usually uses, which are often called Shaheds. The Shaheds are slow, propeller-driven drones that have been a big part of the fighting in Ukraine for a long time.
While these new jet drones are faster, experts say they are not ready to completely replace the older ones. There are three main reasons for this. First, they are likely much more expensive to build. Second, because they go so fast, they might be harder to control or use for certain types of missions. Finally, it takes a lot of time and money to build the new bases and train people to use them.
Even with these limits, the new bases put these faster drones within striking distance of NATO countries. Military analysts are watching the situation closely to see how these new weapons will be used in the conflict moving forward. For now, the older, slower drones remain the main workhorse for Russia's air attacks.
Source: Kyiv Post
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