Oleh Lyashko Promoted to Colonel, Takes Command of New Drone Regiment

Lyashko's New Appointment

According to Главком: Oleh Lyashko has been named commander of the newly established 432nd Separate Unmanned Systems Regiment, part of the 11th Army Corps within the Eastern Operational Command. He has also been promoted to the rank of colonel. Previously, he led a drone battalion in the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, a unit that has now been expanded into a regiment.

Lyashko, the leader of the Radical Party, has been serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces since August 2022. Before this appointment, his military rank was senior lieutenant. The decision to promote him was made during a special period, despite the fact that he does not hold a full specialized military education.

Achievements and Honors

The drone battalion of the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, which he commanded, was scaled up into a separate regiment within the 3rd Army Corps. Lyashko was appointed battalion commander in 2025, having taken charge of that unit in the fall of 2024.

An award received by the battalion was presented by Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, and the unit was also ranked among the top five in the Defense Forces.

In January 2026, Lyashko was awarded the Order of Merit, Third Class, by the President of Ukraine for personal courage and dedication. This honor was also conferred upon the drone battalion of the 63rd Mechanized Brigade, recognizing its frontline achievements.

“We all know battalion commander Oleh Lyashko is becoming a regiment commander. Respect. The guy is quietly, calmly, and methodically building an impressive military career, having managed to organize one of the best unmanned systems units within a line brigade.”

In Factum

Lyashko's appointment as head of the 432nd Separate Unmanned Systems Regiment marks a significant step for Ukraine's armed forces, especially given the critical role of drone technology in modern warfare. It also reflects the command's trust in his leadership abilities and past performance, which enhances operational effectiveness. Recognition of his achievements could serve as an incentive for other military personnel, encouraging them to serve in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.