Ukraine has emerged as a significant player in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles, meeting frontline needs while expanding its reach in international markets. Reports indicate that Ukrainian manufacturers produce around four million UAVs each year.
The production encompasses both affordable FPV drones and long-range strike drones. In comparison, the United States manufactures about 100,000 military drones annually.
"It's not just about quantity but also diversity. There are likely more models than in all NATO countries combined," remarked RAND analyst Michael Bonert.
Some Ukrainian drone manufacturers have already entered the EU market. For instance, Skyeton has opened a facility in Slovakia and has announced partnerships with Denmark and the UK. This company produces reconnaissance UAVs capable of flying for up to 24 hours.
Another domestic firm, TSIR, is currently operating in Finland, where they are preparing to launch a UAV production line for NATO.
Much depends on funding. The FlyWell consortium, which includes several Ukrainian drone manufacturers, is currently aiming to raise around $50 million to finance additional European manufacturing and research projects, including the development of hydrogen power systems for UAVs. Establishing production in Europe will create a secure environment, as they will be out of reach of Russia.
European companies are also developing new solutions. Finnish Summa Defence is self-funding production and has already created prototypes of three models, which can enter mass production right after testing in Ukraine. Part of the production will go to NATO countries, but Ukraine remains a priority.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the launch of mass production of a new drone model, which will serve as an alternative to Chinese Mavic UAVs. He stated that an alternative has been found, but details about these drones have yet to be disclosed.