At the eighth annual Eastern Economic Forum, Dmitry Peskov, the Special Presidential Representative for Digital and Technological Development, drew an unexpected parallel between aerial drones and drones as a way to illustrate language and technology. He tackled a persistent issue: the absence of clear and consistent names for modern technologies. According to Peskov, many discussions stall because terms like unmanned aerial vehicle systems and unmanned aerial vehicles blur the identity of the devices they describe.
His stance is straightforward. He argues that language should absorb the meanings of other languages rather than cling to confusion. In Russian, he notes, there is a word for drone that captures both the image and the function: a flying machine with a distinctly dry, precise sense. This linguistic choice, he suggests, helps reduce ambiguity when discussing new technologies across different languages and cultures.
Peskov also commented on the military implications of drone use. He indicated that in modern arsenals, drones have begun to replace traditional cavalry in certain roles, signaling a shift in how air and autonomous systems are integrated into national security strategies. The claim underscores the rapid pace at which unmanned systems are becoming central to military operations and defense planning.
The Eastern Economic Forum itself serves as a platform to attract foreign investment to the Russian Far East and to foster economic cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region. The forum typically convenes a diverse group of policymakers, business leaders, and researchers to explore opportunities for collaboration and growth. In the 2023 edition, discussions took place on the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University, focusing on regional development, technological advancement, and the role of digital infrastructure in expanding trade and investment opportunities.
In related technology news, GLONASS announced progress on satellite tracking solutions designed for monitoring flight activity of drones. These developments highlight a broader push toward improved national and regional capability in navigation, surveillance, and airspace management, reflecting a growing ecosystem of sensors, satellites, and data links that support safer and more reliable unmanned operations.
As policymakers and industry leaders continue to refine the language and the tools used to describe and manage drone technology, the conversation emphasizes clear definitions, interoperable standards, and transparent governance. The goal is to ensure that public understanding keeps pace with rapid technical change, enabling informed decision making, responsible deployment, and robust economic growth in the Asia-Pacific corridor and beyond. Analysts note that the evolving discourse around drones intersects with international collaboration, technology licensing, and strategic investments that shape how communities, governments, and businesses respond to this transformative class of systems. [Citation: Forum proceedings and official statements summarized by the event organizers]