Global arms market transformation and the rise of drone warfare: strategic lessons from Ukraine’s experience

The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation has triggered profound transformations in the global arms market. This study explores the dynamics of military spending in major regions, the strategic expansion of drone technologies, and the realignment of procurement priorities among NATO, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries. Special focus is placed on the development and combat deployment of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), their influence on tactical doctrines, and the emergence of Ukraine as a critical hub for drone warfare innovation. The article provides a comparative analysis of trends in conventional arms reduction and drone proliferation, highlighting technological leadership, regional asymmetries, and prospects for Ukraine’s defence-industrial base.