President Vladimir Putin says Russia has the scientific, human and industrial potential to become a global leader in autonomous systems, arguing that self‑driving and unmanned technologies, alongside digital platforms and artificial intelligence, will define future economic and defense strength. He urges a tenfold expansion of autonomous systems in all sectors, faster regulation and certification, use of experience from combat drone operators, and the creation of a sovereign unmanned transport industry that can compete globally and export turnkey drone ecosystems to “friendly countries.”