8469 visitors online
The drone industry in Ukraine is undergoing a dynamic transformation, driven by innovation, global cooperation, and strategic investments. In 2025, drones have become a critical component of both defense and civilian sectors, enabling Ukraine to secure its skies, enhance reconnaissance, and lead technological advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

The government and private manufacturers are scaling up the production of combat, reconnaissance, FPV, and interceptor drones. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, together with international partners such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Latvia, Spain, and Romania, is driving large-scale agreements to boost drone production capacities. These efforts are supported by strategic deals worth billions, ensuring that Ukraine meets its defense needs while positioning itself as a global leader in drone technologies.

Key achievements of 2025 include the delivery of over one million FPV drones to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, contracts for high-speed interceptor drones capable of exceeding 300 km/h, and the launch of joint ventures with foreign partners for AI-powered strike systems and fiber-optic-controlled UAVs. The innovative DOT-Chain logistics and procurement platform has streamlined supply chains, ensuring rapid and efficient deployment of drones to the frontlines.

Beyond the battlefield, the drone industry also fuels economic growth and technological research. Ukrainian companies like Skyeton and Wild Hornets are expanding internationally, opening facilities in the UK and developing advanced interceptor systems. Legislative reforms, including tax and customs incentives for drone manufacturers, further stimulate the sector’s rapid growth.

As the industry matures, the integration of artificial intelligence, electronic warfare solutions, and advanced navigation systems is setting new standards in UAV capabilities. This technological edge, combined with international collaboration, solidifies Ukraine’s status as a hub for innovation in the global drone market.

Stay updated on the latest trends, agreements, and breakthroughs shaping the drone industry, from mass production of military UAVs to civilian applications that redefine logistics, agriculture, and emergency response. The future of unmanned technologies in Ukraine is here, built on resilience, innovation, and global partnerships.

Head of the “Drone Industry” project at Censor.NET Vladyslav Nedashkivskyi.
Contact email: [email protected]

What are the main trends driving the growth of the drone industry in Ukraine?

The Ukrainian drone industry is growing due to strong government support, international investment, technological innovations, and the urgent need for defense solutions. These trends drive rapid scaling of production, integration of AI systems, and expansion into global markets.

How is Ukraine increasing the production of interceptor drones for defense?

Ukraine has launched multiple programs and contracts with domestic manufacturers to scale the production of interceptor drones. The government provides funding, while international partners supply technology and expertise, allowing daily output to reach thousands of units.

What international partnerships are shaping the Ukrainian drone sector?

Key partnerships with the United States, the United Kingdom, Latvia, Spain, and Romania are helping Ukraine secure funding, technology transfer, and joint production facilities. These collaborations accelerate innovation and expand the global reach of Ukrainian drones.

How many FPV drones have been delivered to the Ukrainian military?

In 2025, more than one million FPV drones have been delivered to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This record output supports frontline operations, providing critical tactical advantages against enemy forces and strengthening the country’s defense capabilities.

What role does artificial intelligence play in modern UAV systems?

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing UAV performance by improving targeting accuracy, autonomous navigation, and real-time data processing. AI-powered strike kits enhance operational efficiency, reduce human error, and make drones more versatile in complex missions.

Which Ukrainian companies are leading in drone innovation and export?

Companies such as Skyeton and Wild Hornets are at the forefront of drone innovation. They specialize in reconnaissance systems, high-speed interceptors, and international joint ventures, expanding Ukrainian drone technology into global defense and commercial markets.

How has the DOT-Chain platform improved drone procurement logistics?

The DOT-Chain platform streamlines supply management by automating procurement, ensuring faster delivery, and enhancing transparency. This system reduces delays and increases efficiency, enabling timely deployment of drones to critical operational zones.

What government incentives support the growth of the drone industry?

Ukraine has introduced tax breaks, customs benefits, and legal frameworks to support drone manufacturers. These incentives encourage private investment, boost production, and foster research and development in advanced unmanned aerial systems.

What are the economic benefits of developing the drone industry in Ukraine?

The drone industry generates high-tech jobs, attracts foreign investments, and drives innovation in AI, electronics, and logistics. It also strengthens Ukraine’s position in the global defense market, creating opportunities for export and international cooperation.

How is Ukraine preparing to meet future demands for drones worldwide?

By expanding production capacity, investing in R&D, and fostering global partnerships, Ukraine is positioning itself to supply millions of drones annually. These efforts aim to meet both defense and civilian demand in international markets.

show details

Latest news Drone industry

Kellogg Ukrainians are world leaders in drones, we are far behind – Kellogg U.S. presidential envoy Keith Kellogg said that Ukraine has become a "world leader" in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles. 2 325 13 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Zelenskyy meets with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper Zelenskyy and UK Foreign Secretary Cooper discuss production of interceptor drones President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who arrived in Ukraine on her first visit in office. 684 6 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones Drone industry

port,primorsk,rf Ukrainian drones attack Russia’s largest oil port for first time (updated) On the night of September 12, more than 30 Ukrainian drones attacked Russia’s Leningrad region. 84 0 Previously in trend: Explosions in Russia UAV attack on oil refinery of Russia Drone industry

Shmyhal: Ukraine should produce 400,000 strike drones monthly Ukraine must produce 400,000 strike drones per month to compete effectively with Russia – Shmyhal Ukraine must produce 400,000 strike drones per month to compete effectively with Russia on the front line, Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal said. 2 547 47 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy proposes joint production of interceptor drones with Europe President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on European partners to launch joint financing and production programs for interceptor drones. 466 10 Previously in trend: Drone industry

UK to manufacture Ukrainian interceptor drones UK to produce Ukrainian interceptor drones – Shmyhal The relevant agreement was signed with UK Defence Secretary John Healey, building on understandings between the President of Ukraine and the UK Prime Minister to deepen industrial cooperation. 578 8 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones Drone industry

Syrskyi holds meeting on Unmanned Systems Forces: what’s known? Russia copying Ukraine’s successful technologies, including in interceptor drones – Syrskyi Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi held a meeting on the development of the Unmanned Systems Forces. 2 361 38 Previously in trend: Drone industry

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen EU to allocate €6 billion in advance for drone production for Ukraine – von der Leyen European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an advance allocation of €6 billion in loans for drone production in Ukraine. 1 252 12 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

UK Defence Secretary John Healey UK to supply Ukraine with thousands of long-range drones – Healey UK Defence Secretary John Healey has announced that London will fund the production of long-range drones on British soil and transfer them to Ukraine. 2 301 28 Previously in trend: Ramstein meeting Drone industry

oil pipeline, RF Third pipeline in Russia blows up within 24 hours – media A powerful explosion hit a trunk oil pipeline in Russia’s Krasnoarmeysky district of Saratov region overnight on September 8 at around 01:00. 122 0 Previously in trend: Drone industry Strikes on Russia’s oil refining sector

military exemption Government clarifies grounds for military exemption of employees from mobilization The Cabinet of Ministers has clarified the grounds for military exemption of persons liable for military service during mobilization and martial law. 11 0 Previously in trend: Employee mobilization exemption Drone industry

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy convenes Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff meeting to discuss shielding critical infrastructure and energy from Russian attacks On Monday, September 8, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff focused on the protection of critical infrastructure and the energy sector. 1 030 21 Previously in trend: Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff meeting Drone industry

Drones, FPV, FPV drones, FPV drones Ministry of Defence’s state-owned enterprise saves ₴511 million on FPV drone procurement. How was this achieved? The Defense Procurement Agency (DPA) of the Ministry of Defense saved almost 511 million hryvnias in the purchase of FPV drones by using framework agreements based on tactical and technical requirements. 23 0 Previously in trend: Procurement of drones Drone industry

Sternenko announced a problem with FPV drones. What is known? Up to 60% of state-procured FPV drones unfit for use – Sternenko More than half of the 2 million FPV drones from the state are unfit for use and lying in warehouses. 16 918 206 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy on interceptor drone results: Over 150 interceptions in one night During Russia’s mass strike on the night of 7 September, Ukrainian interceptor drones neutralized more than one and a half hundred enemy UAVs. 3 304 40 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Umerov Meeting of Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Technology Staff to be held next week to review missile programs and scale interceptor-drone production – Umerov Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) Rustem Umerov announced a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Technology Staff. 1 623 36 Previously in trend: Drone industry Ballistic missiles production in Ukraine

Heorhii Tykhyi Details of Ukraine–US drone deal to be disclosed soon – Foreign Ministry Details of the drone agreement between Ukraine and the United States will be announced soon. 526 1 Previously in trend: Drone industry Ukraine–US cooperation

Fire Point presented the FP-2 frontline strike drone Fire Point unveils FP-2 strike UAV for frontline. PHOTO Ukrainian company Fire Point, the manufacturer of "Flamingo" rockets, unveiled the FP-2 strike UAV of the "middle strike" class at the MSPO exhibition in Poland, designed to hit targets not far from the frontline. The drone is equipped with a 100-kg warhead. 5 415 19 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

Ukraine eyes drone production deal with the Philippines Ukraine eyes joint drone production deal with Philippines – media Ukraine intends to deepen defense cooperation with the Philippines and is considering a deal on joint drone production. 1 272 16 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

Kasianov on Fire Point. Appeal to Zelenskyy Until 2023, "Fire Point" company has been known only in film industry, but now it receives state orders, - military Kasianov Fire Point, the company that manufactures "Flamingo" rockets, was known only to a small circle of film industry figures until 2023, but by 2024 it had already received 30% of all government orders on the drone market. 16 736 85 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy: Ukraine hopes to secure additional funding for drone production through "Danish model" President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine hopes to use the "Danish model" to secure additional funding for drone production. 750 21 Previously in trend: Assistance according to the Danish model Drone industry

Zelensky signed the Defence City laws Zelenskyy signs key Defence City laws (updated) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed key laws introducing tax incentives for defense-industrial enterprises that join the special legal regime Defence City. 28 0 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal Ukraine needs $6 billion for drone weaponry by year’s end – Shmyhal Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal has outlined Ukraine’s funding needs for drone weapons production in 2025. 2 175 33 Previously in trend: Development of drone production in Ukraine Drone industry

Overview of Ukraine’s UAV market: trends and prospects Drone industry in Ukraine has taken shape, time to muscle up - manufacturers say about UAV market More than 500 active drone manufacturers are currently operating in Ukraine, producing over 1,000 models of UAVs. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, drone production in Ukraine has increased 800-fold — from 5,000 units in 2022 to 4 million by the end of 2024. 74 0 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Poland presents the Kaczka drone in the form of a swan Swan-shaped drone unveiled in Poland: it is designed for reconnaissance. PHOTO At the MSPO 2025 defense exhibition in Poland, a drone called Kaczka was unveiled. 6 010 22 Previously in trend: Drone industry

drones One month of DOT-Chain Defence weapons marketplace: 5,600 drones worth UAH 216 million delivered In the first month of operation, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine delivered 5,600 drones worth a total of UAH 216 million to the front line via the DOT-Chain Defence IT system, developed by the State Operator for Non-Lethal Acquisition (DOT). 582 5 Previously in trend: Drone industry DOT-Chain Defence

Volodymyr Zelenskyy Zelenskyy discusses security guarantees and joint drone production with Portuguese PM Montenegro Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone conversation with Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. 487 9 Previously in trend: Drone industry Ukraine-Portugal cooperation

Drone production with France: Ambassador shares details Ukraine and France coordinating launch of drone production for Armed Forces – Ambassador Veyssière France is working with Ukraine to launch drone production for the Ukrainian army, which could be organized in both countries. Consultations are currently underway. 927 2 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

Zelenskyy held Staff meeting on September 1: key details Zelenskyy holds Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff meeting: We speeding up delivery of additional air defense systems to protect against missiles President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff, focusing in particular on funding for drone manufacturers and protection against Russian Shahed drones and missiles. 1 026 22 Previously in trend: Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff meeting Drone industry

drones, leleka 96% of UAVs procured by Ukraine are domestically made – study In 2024, the Ministry of Defense and the State Special Communications Service purchased 1.5 million drones. This year, the Ministry of Defense is expected to procure 4.5 million drones worth $2.7 billion. About 93% of the funds will be handled through the Defense Procurement Agency. 44 0 Previously in trend: Drone industry

NABU High-level government corruption under investigation: Fire Point responds to report on NABU probe Information is circulating in the media that the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) has launched an investigation into the producer of the "Flamingo" missile and Fire Point strike drones. However, according to Business Censor, this is a so-called "general" case being investigated on a broad range of issues, likely covering all major producers of deep-strike drones capable of hitting targets deep behind enemy lines. 163 0 Previously in trend: Drone industry

NABU is investigating the connection between the manufacturer of Flamingo missiles and Mindich. NABU probes Flamingo missile maker’s ties to Mindich, now top Defense Ministry supplier – Kyiv Independent (updated) The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) has launched an investigation into the manufacturer of the Flamingo missile and Fire Point strike drones. 186 0 Previously in trend: Mindich has left Ukraine Drone industry

Shmyhal stresses development of drone industry in modern warfare Thanks to Ukrainian drones, Kill Zone has been created where enemy cannot move without heavy losses – Shmyhal Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that Ukraine has changed the nature of modern warfare and that Ukrainian defenders have become co-creators of unique technologies. 1 385 28 Previously in trend: Ukrainian defense industry Drone industry

drone 97% of private defense producers expect arms export opening – Tech Force in UA survey 97% of private arms and military equipment producers are waiting for export restrictions to be lifted so they can begin supplying partner countries, launch joint production, and scale up B2B and B2G partnerships. 41 0 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Defense City laws: arms manufacturers react Defense City: How did arms manufacturers respond to initiative? On August 21, the Verkhovna Rada passed in second reading and as a whole two key draft laws to implement the Defence City initiative – a special legal regime for defense industry enterprises. 39 0 Previously in trend: Drone industry

NAUDI highlights importance of exports for defense industry Ukraine has sufficient capacity to produce for front and for export – NAUDI executive director Honcharov Joint ventures with foreign partners are the key to developing Ukraine’s defense industry. For the state, exports are important as they will provide an additional resource to finance defense orders. 20 311 14 Previously in trend: Ukrainian weapons production Ukrainian defense industry Drone industry

Millions of drones Ukraine needs funding Next year, Ukraine ready to manufacture millions of drones, but financing needed, - Ministry of Defence Ukraine is ready to manufacture millions of drones over the next year, but funding is needed. 1 452 31 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Zelenskyy met with the Chief of the Defence Staff of the United Kingdom, Admiral Anthony Radakin Zelenskyy and Radakin discuss frontline situation, AFU needs and drone production funding. PHOTO President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the outgoing Chief of the Defence Staff of the United Kingdom, Admiral Sir Antony Radakin, and his successor, Air Chief Marshal Richard Knighton. 621 6 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine from Britain Drone industry

Shmyhal and British military leadership discussed the production of unmanned aerial vehicles Shmyhal, Radakin and British Chief of Defence Staff Knighton held meeting: they agreed on cooperation in drone production. PHOTO Ukraine's Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal met with the Chief of the UK Defence Staff, Admiral Anthony Radakin, and Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton. 429 5 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Zelenskyy and Kellogg Zelenskyy meets with Kellogg in Kyiv: they discussed defense cooperation, pressure on Russia, return of abducted children President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting in Kyiv with U.S. Presidential Special Envoy General Keith Kellogg. 669 6 Previously in trend: Zelenskyy meets Kellogg Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv Drone industry

Meeting between Kellogg and Shmygal in Kyiv on 25 August Shmyhal and Kellogg held meeting: they discussed defence priorities and agreement with US on drones. PHOTOS Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal held a meeting in Kyiv with U.S. Presidential Special Envoy General Keith Kellogg. 599 5 Previously in trend: Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv Drone industry

Lithuania to produce long-range drones together with Ukraine Ukraine and Lithuania to jointly produce long-range drones – Shmyhal Ukraine and Lithuania have signed a Letter of Intent on joint production of defense products, including long-range UAVs. 548 9 Previously in trend: Drone industry

high-speed drones "Wild Hornets" has created drone interceptor capable of flying at speeds of over 300 km/h, - media. VIDEO The Ukrainian company "Wild Hornets", which specialises in the production of combat drones, has demonstrated an interceptor drone that can reach speeds of up to 315 km/h in stable flight. 13 144 22 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Drone deliveries to the Armed Forces of Ukraine: contract fulfillment rates DPA delivered just 23% of drones from all contracts for Armed Forces of Ukraine this year – Shabunin As of early July, the Ministry of Defense’s Defense Procurement Agency has delivered only 23% of drones contracted for 2025 to the Defense Forces. 18 103 20 Previously in trend: Purchases of the DPA Drone industry

Conversation between Zelensky and Trump on 5 August Zelenskyy held talks with Trump: they discussed ending war, sanctions against Russia, and defence cooperation On 5 August, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with US President Donald Trump. 4 319 30 Previously in trend: Trump and Zelenskyy’s conversation Zelenskyy-Trump conversation Drone industry

Weapons Marketplace DOT-Chain Defence weapons marketplace has shown effectiveness and is being put into full operation - Shmyhal The Ministry of Defense is launching the DOT-Chain supply management system into full operation. 1 612 20 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Over 1 million FPV drones delivered to the Armed Forces of Ukraine Over 1 million FPV drones delivered to Ukrainian Armed Forces this year – Shmyhal Since the beginning of 2025, the Ministry of Defense has delivered over 1 million FPV drones for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 1 126 25 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

Ukraine and the US are preparing a deal, Stefanchuk provides details US and Ukraine preparing mega deal. US will buy Ukrainian drones, - Stefanchuk. VIDEO Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk said that Ukraine is preparing a large-scale defence deal with the United States. 4 227 63 Previously in trend: Drone industry