Ukraine is leveraging a vast archive of drone footage to enhance its military capabilities using artificial intelligence (AI). Since 2022, the OCHI system has centralised data from over 15,000 drone crews, collecting an incredible 2 million hours of battlefield video. Oleksandr Dmitriev, OCHI’s founder, described this footage as “food for the AI.” He highlighted the role of training systems capable of revolutionising warfare. “If you want to teach an AI, you give it 2 million hours (of video), it will become something supernatural,” Dmitriev stated.
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The archive’s primary function is to provide military commanders with real-time battlefield visuals from multiple drones on a single screen. However, its long-term potential lies in training AI systems to improve combat tactics, identify targets, and assess weapon effectiveness. With 5–6 terabytes of footage being added daily, this data trove enables AI to learn how to differentiate between battlefield elements like roads, natural obstacles, and ambushes. As Samuel Bendett from the Center for a New American Security explained, “Humans can do this intuitively, but machines cannot, and they have to be trained.”
In addition to OCHI, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense has deployed the Avengers system. This will integrate AI with drone and CCTV feeds to enhance surveillance. Avengers reportedly identifies around 12,000 Russian equipment pieces weekly, demonstrating the potential of AI in modern warfare. Autonomous drones and exploratory efforts in AI-driven drone swarms further illustrate Ukraine’s commitment to advancing its defence technologies.
While Ukraine refines its AI strategies, Russia also continues to develop AI-driven military capabilities, including its Lancet strike drones. As the conflict evolves, it becomes evident that AI and data driving will play an increasingly pivotal role in the future of warfare.
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