The S-70 is a new stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicle – part of Russian efforts to modernise its military capabilities.
It is very large, with a wingspan of 19 metres, and can be used for both reconnaissance and precision strikes.
Under development since 2009, the drone underwent state testing in 2023 and mass production was expected to begin this year.
Mr Kovalenko said that three S-70 drones have been manufactured so far, and three more are under development.
In June 2020, Russia’s Tass news agency reported that the drone was insured at the time for loss, disappearance or damage for over $18 million.
Debris from the incident fell somewhere near the city of Kostiantynivka, damaging several houses, local media reported. There were no injuries.
Russian channels are yet to confirm the downing.
Yurii Ihnat, a former spokesman for the Ukraine air force, also warned on Saturday of the threat posed by “unidentified” Russian drones.
Ukraine is not always able to identify the type of drones being used until they have been shot down, he added.
Moscow has stepped up attacks by unmanned aerial craft in recent weeks.
Cities and towns across Ukraine were targeted daily in September, with attacks following a similar pattern during the first week of October.