8506 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

Related TOP news Drone industry

Shmyhal demonstrated the capabilities of Ukrainian weapons production to NATO allies Shmyhal showcases Ukrainian missiles and drones to NATO representatives. PHOTOS Ukraine’s Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal showcased the capabilities of the country’s arms industry to Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Ručienė, NATO representatives, and other distinguished foreign guests. 7 881 37 Previously in trend: Ukrainian Arms Ukrainian missile Long Neptune Ukrainian defense industry Drone industry

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy Controlled export program for Ukrainian weapons must be launched in November – Zelenskyy President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that a program for the controlled export of domestically produced weapons must be launched as early as November. 1 662 34 Previously in trend: Drone industry Ukrainian arms exports

enemy drone Enemy is testing drone interceptor that resembles Ukrainian Sting drone. PHOTO The Russian research and production centre for unmanned aerial systems and robotic systems, NPC BASiRTC, has presented a drone interceptor that resembles the Ukaine solutions. 8 486 27 Previously in trend: russia increases weapons production

Purchase of interceptor drones Fedorov made a statement Ukraine is ready to buy all interceptor drones that will be manufactured this year, - Fedorov The state is ready to contract all the interceptor drones that companies will be able to produce by the end of the year. 33 025 22 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Volodymyr Zelenskyy Ukraine’s drone and missile production could reach $35 billion in 2026 – Zelenskyy President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that by 2026, Ukraine will be capable of producing missiles and drones worth around 35 billion dollars. 1 067 29 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

Ukraine launches serial production of OCTOPUS interceptor drone against Russian Shaheds Ukrainian OCTOPUS interceptor drone enters serial production, Shmyhal says Ukraine has launched serial production of a domestically made interceptor drone designed to shoot down Russian Shaheds, called OCTOPUS. 3 820 29 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones 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

Zelenskyy U.S. will receive certain types of Ukrainian drones – Zelenskyy The United States will receive certain types of Ukrainian drones. 1 812 20 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

Ukraine’s Armed Forces launch 7,000–9,000 drones daily to hold off Russian attacks Drone war: Ukraine’s Armed Forces deploy 7,000–9,000 drones against Russia daily Ukraine deploys between seven and nine thousand drones every day for defense and counterattacks against Russian forces. 1 904 21 Previously in trend: Production of drones Unmanned technologies Countering Russian drones Drone industry

The Armed Forces of Ukraine will have a new branch of troops to protect infrastructure Ukraine is creating new branch of troops in Air Force - unmanned air defence systems, - Syrskyi Ukraine plans to create a new type of troops in the Air Force - unmanned air defence systems. 2 134 23 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones Drone industry

UK to send Formula 1-inspired drones to Ukraine Low-cost, high-tech British drones set to arrive in Ukraine UK-based MGI Engineering intends to supply Ukraine with SkyShark strike drones. 4 439 19 Previously in trend: Production of drones 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

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

Shaheds over the Kyiv region "Clear Sky" system intercepts almost 50 drones over Kyiv region at night Today, on July 12, 2025, almost 50 enemy UAVs were intercepted in the sky over Kyiv region at night. 3 797 18 Previously in trend: Shaheds attack on Kyiv region

Shmyhal Joint production and long-range drone development discussed: Shmyhal meets German delegation Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal met in Kyiv with the leadership of the German Defense Ministry’s Situation Center "Ukraine" — Brigadier General Joachim Kaschke and his predecessor, Major General Christian Freuding. 759 18 Previously in trend: Drone industry

meeting Zelenskyy holds meeting on drone production and procurement: special focus on interceptor drones On Monday, July 21, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting on the development, production, and procurement of drones. 648 18 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Fedorov on drones Ukrainian drone manufacturers prepare reconnaissance aircraft, strike UAVs and bomber drones with digital links – Fedorov Ukrainian drone manufacturers are preparing a technological response to new battlefield challenges—reconnaissance aircraft, strike kamikaze drones, and bomber UAVs with digital communications links. 1 473 17 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

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

Denys Shmyhal Three manufacturers of interceptor drones received state contracts - Shmyhal The government is developing the Ukrainian market for interceptor drones. Yesterday, three manufacturers received government contracts. 1 499 16 Previously in trend: Drone industry

NSDC and Defense Ministry delegation discusses "Drone Deal" in U.S. Ukraine and U.S. discuss deal on purchasing Ukrainian drones – Umerov A delegation of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, together with the Ministry of Defense, visited the United States for talks on implementing the presidential "Drone Deal" initiative. 1 455 17 Previously in trend: Drone industry

drones Corruption in defense sector: NABU and SAPO expose ₴90 million embezzlement on drones. VIDEO The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) have exposed a scheme to embezzle over ₴90 million during drone procurements for the Defense Forces. Officials of the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection and private company representatives inflated prices for DJI and Autel UAVs and transferred the funds abroad. 7 586 37 Previously in trend: Embezzlement of budget funds Drone procurement corruption

High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC) Drone-related embezzlement: HACC arrests two suspects for two months with bail option On Thursday, October 30, the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC) placed two suspects in custody until December 28, 2025, as part of a case involving the embezzlement of funds during drone procurement for Ukraine’s Defence Forces, with the option of bail. 2 065 18 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone procurement corruption

US helped Lasar’s Group UAV unit If not for US paying for 2,000 drones, we would have halted in October – Lasar’s Group commander Yelizarov Lasar’s Group, a National Guard of Ukraine heavy-drone special unit created in 2022 without state funding, continues to carry out combat missions thanks to support from international partners and private donors. 3 059 15 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Zelenskyy Ukraine and US launch joint drone production, including Shahed interceptors – Zelenskyy Ukraine has signed an agreement with several American companies for the joint production of drones, both reconnaissance and combat types, including interceptor drones. 1 779 15 Previously in trend: Production of drones

Colonel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Ignatiev, "Betrayal caused setbacks in UAV development," says former commander of 110th TDF Ihnatiev. VIDEO Ukraine has lost momentum in drone and EW development due to decisions by certain officials. 8 812 52 Previously in trend: Development of drone production in Ukraine Drone industry

unmanned surface vehicle Ukraine ready to export unmanned surface vehicles and selected artillery systems – Zelenskyy Ukraine is ready to export sea drones and certain types of artillery systems. 2 275 37 Previously in trend: Drone industry Ukrainian arms exports

Meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky – October 17 Zelenskyy offers Trump Ukrainian drones in exchange for Tomahawk missiles Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has offered U.S. President Donald Trump thousands of Ukrainian-made drones in exchange for permission to use Tomahawk cruise missiles. 5 000 43 Previously in trend: Drone industry Tomahawk missiles for Ukraine

Interceptor drones in Odesa region: Air Force refutes Sternenko’s claim Sternenko claims Air Force banned use of interceptor drones: Air Command "South" refutes The Air Command "South" has denied activist Serhii Sternenko’s claims that interceptor drones were allegedly not being used to shoot down Russian reconnaissance UAVs in the Odesa sector and that volunteer assistance was being restricted. 4 479 22 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones Drone industry

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy signed laws on benefits for fiber-optic drone manufacturers President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed two laws that provide tax and customs benefits for manufacturers of drones controlled via fiber optic cable. 952 14 Previously in trend: Fiber-optic drones

Zelenskyy at the Technological Headquarters on the launch of new defense capabilities Zelenskyy held meeting of Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Technology Staff: launch of new defense capabilities approved President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Technology Staff, where they discussed the development of the Ukrainian defense industry. 1 197 29 Previously in trend: Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff meeting

безпілотник,шарк Cabinet of Ministers amended procurement procedure for drones and domestically produced electronic warfare means During today’s meeting, the Cabinet of Ministers amended the procedure for implementing a pilot project for defense procurement of domestically produced unmanned systems and electronic warfare means. 3 625 13 Previously in trend: War

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

Zelenskyy: Shahed drones more dangerous than ballistic missiles "Shaheds" have become more dangerous than ballistic missiles – Zelenskyy Russian Shahed attack drones currently pose a greater threat to Ukrainian cities than ballistic missiles. 4 581 13 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones Drone industry

interceptor drones Cheap Ukrainian interceptor drones change rules of air warfare — Business Insider Low-cost interceptor drones developed in Ukraine are reshaping the air war and have become a key element of the country’s defense. They are already shooting down hundreds of Russian Shaheds. 4 670 13 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones 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

President of Slovakia Peter Pellegrini Slovakia wants to join "Drone Wall" – President Pellegrini Slovakia will do everything necessary to join the "Drone Wall" project — an initiative aimed at strengthening the EU’s eastern border against potential Russian UAV attacks. 2 844 28 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone wall

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen EU will allocate €2 billion to Ukraine for production of drones, - von der Leyen European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an agreement with Ukraine to allocate €2 billion for the production of drones. 757 12 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Quadcopter Baton Optic Defense Ministry codifies "Baton Optic" – Ukrainian-made unmanned aerial systems. PHOTO The Ministry of Defense has codified and approved for use in the Armed Forces of Ukraine the Ukrainian-made unmanned aerial systems known as "Baton Optic." 2 690 12 Previously in trend: Production of drones Codification of weapons

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy on effectiveness of interceptor drones: 68% successful destruction rate, efficiency to increase The current effectiveness rate for destroying enemy drones with Ukrainian interceptor drones stands at 68%. 1 233 12 Previously in trend: 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

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

drone production Shmyhal and Dutch PM Schoof visit Ukrainian kamikaze drone production facility. PHOTO Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal and Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof have inspected the work of one of Ukraine's leading drone manufacturers. 3 216 12 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry Investment in drone manufacturing

The DIU has revealed a new type of naval drone carrier used to strike targets in Crimea Ukraine has created a unique surface drone carrier for fibre optic drones, - Forbes Ukraine is a leader in the creation of various types of drones for specific tasks. 7 179 13 Previously in trend: Marine drones of Ukraine Drone industry

drones Most Russian strike UAVs are now being destroyed specifically by interceptor drones – Syrskyi Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi held another working meeting on strengthening capabilities to counter enemy strike UAVs. 8 797 24 Previously in trend: Shooting down Shaheds Interceptor drones 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

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