Ukraine has disclosed plans to leverage its vast trove of battlefield data as a strategic tool to strengthen alliances and secure support from partner nations. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digitalisation, Mykhailo Fedorov, said the information gathered since Russia’s invasion in 2022 is of immense value, particularly in training artificial intelligence models for defence applications. He noted that Kyiv is treading cautiously in sharing such data but sees it as one of the “cards” it can use to build stronger ties with allies like the United States.
The war has given Ukraine access to unparalleled combat data, including millions of hours of drone footage and meticulously logged statistics. Fedorov explained that this data is in high demand globally as it could help in developing predictive defence technologies. He also revealed that Ukraine has opened its territory to international defence companies to test new weapons, with nearly 1,000 applications received and about 50 products already being deployed on the battlefield.
Artificial intelligence has become central to Ukraine’s defence efforts, with AI tools now assisting in drone operations, reconnaissance, and long-range strikes. Fedorov confirmed that Ukraine is working on autonomous drones capable of swarm operations. U.S. firm Palantir has also been supporting Ukraine by analysing Russian strike patterns, monitoring disinformation, and even guiding non-military decisions like locating bomb-proof schools and prioritising demining activities.
Beyond innovation, Ukraine has introduced a unique incentive system for its troops, where soldiers earn points for confirmed strikes against Russian targets. These points can be exchanged for drones, jammers, and other equipment, creating a competitive “marketplace” that has already distributed half a million drones. With drone warfare now accounting for up to 90% of battlefield strikes, Fedorov described frontline conditions as “hellish,” noting that Ukraine increasingly deploys unmanned ground vehicles to supply ammunition and sustain soldiers in fortified positions.