Ukraine Ramps Up Peklo Missile-Drone Production to Boost Long-Range Strikes
On 8 February, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO Military Committee Chairman Giuseppe Cavo Dragone visited a highly secured underground facility in Ukraine where Peklo missile drones are being produced. This secret production site highlights Ukraine’s efforts to boost long-range strike capabilities despite challenges from the ongoing war. This visit marks Cavo Dragone’s first official trip to Ukraine since becoming NATO Military Committee Chairman. As the war continues Ukraine continues to strengthen its defense industry and deepen cooperation with NATO, ensuring greater military resilience.
(Office of the President of Ukraine)
The Peklo missile-drone features a modular design, allowing it to be adapted to different engine types, reducing supply chain issues. 70% of its components are made in Ukraine which helps to minimize dependence on foreign suppliers. Since late 2024, production has increased, with nearly 100 units already built and serial production expanding. Ukraine plans to manufacture at least 30,000 long-range drones in the next year to offset artillery shortages and work around restrictions on Western-supplied weapons. To protect manufacturing the production facilities have been moved underground which ensures continued operations despite ongoing attacks. This development highlights Ukraine’s defense innovation and resilience in wartime.
The Peklo missile drone (Ukrainian for “hell”) is a high-speed, long-range attack drone developed in Ukraine. It is designed for precision strikes and it combines features of both cruise missiles and kamikaze drones. Peklo is equipped with a turbojet engine which enables it to reach speeds up to 700 km/h and strike targets up to 700 kilometers away. The Peklo missile drone has a wingspan of 3-4 meters and a length of 2-3 meters, making it compact yet highly effective. Built with lightweight composite materials, it offers greater agility, stealth, and endurance in combat. This long-range attack drone can carry a payload of 50-70 kg, including precision-guided munitions, high-explosive warheads, or advanced surveillance equipment. Its versatile design makes it a powerful tool for strategic strikes and intelligence missions, strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.