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

Healey announces UK "wall of drones" to defend against Russia UK to build "drone wall" to defend NATO countries from Russia – Healey The United Kingdom plans to deploy domestically produced drones to build a "drone wall" aimed at strengthening NATO countries’ defenses in the event of Russian aggression. 1 361 11 Previously in trend: Drone industry Defense of the eastern flank Drone wall

EU Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius EU seeks Ukraine’s help to build counter-drone system, drawing on wartime experience – Kubilius Europe is turning to Kyiv for expert support in building its own system to defend against hostile drones amid recent Russian provocations in EU airspace. 755 11 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone wall

SSSCIP responds to NABU suspicions, urges to wait for court decision Drone embezzlement: SSSCIP comments on NABU suspicions and stresses presumption of innocence The State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection (SSSCIP) has commented on the National Anti-Corruption Bureau’s (NABU) statement about notifying officials of suspicion. The agency emphasized that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court. 1 626 11 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone procurement corruption

Ministry of Defense Azov and Khartiia to order strike systems through DOT-Chain Defence marketplace The 1st and 2nd Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine have officially joined the DOT-Chain Defence weapons marketplace. The platform allows units to quickly order FPV drones, fixed-wing drones, bomber drones and electronic warfare systems from 60 domestic manufacturers. 876 11 Previously in trend: Drone industry DOT-Chain Defence

Zelenskyy on strikes on Russian refineries Ukraine is increasing use of long-range drones against Russian oil refineries and military facilities, - Zelenskyy President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says that effective strikes on oil refineries in Russia were made possible by the growth of Ukrainian drone production. 1 629 24 Previously in trend: UAV attack on oil refinery of Russia Drone industry

drone HX-2 Germany scales up production and supplies Ukraine with drones similar to Russian "Lancet", - Defense Express The German company Helsing is ramping up production of the HX-2 combat drone and supplying it to Ukraine; successful tests and plans for serial production make this model a notable competitor in the tactical UAV market. 4 567 18 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Interceptor drones: Sternenko details effectiveness Interceptor drones supplied to Ukraine’s Armed Forces have already downed 444 Russian Shaheds and Gerberas – Sternenko  Ukrainian interceptor drones proved effective in repelling a swarm of Russian Shaheds. The country needs to scale drone-based air defense as quickly as possible. 1 918 27 Previously in trend: Shooting down Shaheds Interceptor drones Drone industry

Ukraine produces around 4 million drones per year Ukraine becomes drone superpower, enters NATO markets – Bloomberg Ukraine has become a global leader in drone production: more than 500 Ukrainian companies now manufacture roughly 4 million drones a year, from cheap FPV craft to long-range strike systems. 2 913 10 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Poland plans to build its own "drone wall." What’s known so far? Poland to start building its own "drone wall" – country’s Defense Ministry Poland plans to begin building a national counter-drone system within months, without waiting for the European Union’s "drone wall" initiative. 527 9 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone wall

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

Ukrainian drones over the battlefield Ukrainian drones control battlefield in one of frontline areas near Pokrovsk. VIDEO A video has been posted online showing Ukrainian drones flying over a small area of the battlefield near Pokrovsk. 5 793 25 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Strike ground robotic systems Over 100 Ukrainian-made weapon systems approved for use in October – Ministry of Defence In October, the Ministry of Defence approved for use in the Armed Forces of Ukraine more than 100 new domestically produced weapons and military systems. The number of newly approved systems rose compared with the previous two months. 554 10 Previously in trend: Production of Ukrainian equipment Production of weapons Drone industry

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

strike drone approaching its target SSU launched series of strikes on occupiers’ bases using "FP-2" drones with 105-kilogram warheads. VIDEO Operators of attack drones of the SSU Special Operations Centre "A" have struck on enemy targets in the temporarily occupied territories. 7 878 28 Previously in trend: Drone industry

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

munition Ukraine introduces 370 new types of munitions, 250 of them for drones – Defence Ministry Ukraine has introduced 370 new types of munitions, including 250 for drones. 764 8 Previously in trend: Production of weapons Drone industry

Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal Ukraine ready to share its experience with Poland in building "drone line" – Shmyhal Ukraine is ready to share its experience in building a "drone line" and will grant Poland access to systems that track unmanned aerial vehicles approaching its territory. 554 8 Previously in trend: Poland and Ukraine relationship Drone industry

Drone wall — Kubilius outlines protection of the EU’s eastern flank Kubilius: EU "drone wall" will include three layers of defense - drone, ground and maritime At its meeting on September 26, the European Union agreed to establish a "drone wall" to protect its eastern border, comprising three main elements. 567 8 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone wall

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy Zelenskyy after Supreme Commander-in-Chief HQ meeting: Ukraine to form additional helicopter units to counter Russian drones On Monday, October 13, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff to discuss the protection and restoration of Ukraine’s energy system, as well as several military issues. 1 885 28 Previously in trend: ttacks on the energy sector Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff meeting Drone industry

US plans to purchase up to one million drones per year U.S. plans to procure one million drones, drawing on experience from Ukraine–Russia war – Reuters The U.S. Army plans to purchase at least 1 million drones over the next two to three years as part of a major procurement program and potential confrontation with China. 1 216 10 Previously in trend: Drone industry

leleka, drones Censor.NET has launched special project dedicated to production and development of unmanned systems in Ukraine Censor.NET has launched a special project dedicated to the domestic drone industry. Its main task is to inform the audience about the current state, trends and innovations in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles, to help develop the UAV industry and to advocate for business in its interaction with the authorities. 1 954 8 Previously in trend: Drone industry

NAUDI Executive Director Serhii Honcharov Artificial limits on arms exports harm Ukrainian producers, army and economy – Honcharov The urgent resumption of regulated arms exports is a key task to support Ukraine’s defense industry. 937 12 Previously in trend: Drone industry Ukrainian arms exports

Volodymyr Zelenskyy introduced Starmer to the OCTOPUS interceptor drone Zelenskyy shows Starmer Ukrainian OCTOPUS interceptor drone to be produced in UK. VIDEO In London, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and demonstrated the Ukrainian OCTOPUS interceptor drone to him. 6 204 20 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones Drone industry

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy: U.S. delegation for drone deal will be in Ukraine next week Next week, a U.S. team will visit Ukraine to discuss a drone production agreement. 5 125 9 Previously in trend: Production of drones Drone industry

Karel Řehka Czechia launches national campaign to raise funds for interceptor drones for Ukraine In the Czech Republic, a national campaign called Charlie One has been launched to raise funds for interceptor drones for Ukraine. The fundraiser is being run by activists from the Skupina D association, which has supplied Ukraine with thousands of drones since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. 982 7 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine from the Czech Republic Drone industry

Shmyhal, Spruds, Robles Shmyhal discusses drone production and strengthening Ukraine’s defense with defense ministers of Latvia and Spain Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal held separate talks with Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds and Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles. 376 6 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine Drone industry

Ukraine and Romania plan joint production of UAVs Romania has begun negotiations with Ukraine on joint production of drones - media The Romanian Ministry of Defense is starting negotiations with Ukraine on the joint production of drones that can be used by the Romanian army and exported to European countries. 928 6 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Ground drone evacuates wounded soldier Drone operator "Hulk" uses Targan ground drone to rescue wounded soldier "Tsom-Tsom" in Zaporizhzhia region. VIDEO Ground-drone operator Ihor, call sign "Hulk," carried out another evacuation of a wounded comrade from the battlefield using a Targan drone (ground drone - ed).  4 065 12 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Zelenskyy Zelenskyy: Tens of thousands have learned to kill professionally with drones due to Russia’s war Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his speech at the UN General Assembly’s general debate, stressed the sweeping changes brought about by Russia’s war against Ukraine. 1 367 14 Previously in trend: Drone industry

How is the Third Assault brigade changing the battlefield with drones? The Washington Post: Biletsky’s Third Assault brigade, having captured Russians with help of ground drone, has made technological revolution on battlefield. VIDEO The Third Separate Assault brigade forced the Russian occupiers to surrender by using a ground-based unmanned aerial vehicle with an explosive charge. This marks a new stage in the transformation of the war. 8 212 10 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Unmanned Systems Forces announce recruitment drive for the Armed Forces of Ukraine "We are looking for nerds, not tigers," Madyar posted original motivational video of USF. VIDEO Commander of Unmanned Systems Forces Robert "Madyar" Brovdi has released an original video calling on civilians with no combat experience to join the USF. 25 493 27 Previously in trend: Recruitment Center Magyar appointed commander of Unmanned Systems Forces Drone industry

Drone Wall: Kubilius outlines required technologies Kubilius outlines key technologies needed for "Drone Wall" in EU Europe must develop additional capabilities to detect and intercept Russian drones for the "drone wall" project to be effective, including lasers and electronic warfare systems. 671 6 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone wall

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

"Kyiv allocates ₴235 million for Shahed interceptor drones," Klytschko to urge Defense Council to strengthen air defenses "Kyiv allocates ₴235 million for Shahed interceptor drones," Klytschko to urge Defense Council to strengthen air defenses In September 2025, Kyiv allocated 235 million hryvnias for interceptor drones designed to shoot down Shaheds and strengthen the city’s air defense. Today, the Kyiv Defense Council will discuss how this initiative is being implemented. 647 6 Previously in trend: Support for Armed Forces from the Kyiv community Interceptor drones

drone Ukraine’s deep strikes into Russia have become more effective, and NATO is learning from this experience – Alliance General Keller The Armed Forces of Ukraine have enhanced their ability to strike military targets deep inside Russian territory. NATO member states are studying Ukraine’s experience. 1 289 5 Previously in trend: Cooperation between Ukraine and NATO Drone industry

Budrys urges EU to tap Ukraine’s drone expertise for a drone wall Ukraine must be part of EU plans to build "drone wall" – Budrys Technology and combat experience in the field of drones have enabled Ukraine to play an active role in building a defensive system along the eastern borders of the European Union. 568 5 Previously in trend: Drone industry Drone wall

VAT exemptions for defence: Parliament abolishes tax on imports of drones, electronic warfare equipment and technology Benefits for defence sector: Parliament passes laws exempting imports of defence goods from VAT The Verkhovna Rada adopted bills No. 14169 and No. 14170, which exempt imports of goods for the production of drones, electronic warfare, demining, and combat simulators from VAT. The exemptions are valid until 2027–2029. 1 145 6 Previously in trend: Drone industry Budget-2026

Lithuania acquires 2609 drones for the Armed Forces of Ukraine as part of charity Over 2,500 drones were purchased by Lithuanians for Ukraine as part of Radarom! The Lithuanian campaign "Radarom!", which was launched on the eve of the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has already raised more than 4.4 million euros. Thousands of drones have been delivered to Ukrainian defenders. 541 5 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine from Lithuania 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

Syrskyi Syrskyi: As kill zone expands, medical units set up underground workspaces and evacuation of wounded goes robotic On the front line, the extensive use of drones is expanding the kill zone, making it harder to evacuate wounded soldiers from the battlefield. 1 479 9 Previously in trend: Evacuation of the wounded Drone industry

shmyhal Ukraine and Poland establish combined drone group, - Shmyhal Ukrainian Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal and his Polish counterpart Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz have agreed to establish a combined task force on unmanned aerial systems, which will include representatives of both armed forces. 908 13 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Unmanned Systems Forces hit 88 Russian targets in November Unmanned Systems Forces hit 88 Russian targets in November. LIST In November, the Unmanned Systems Forces (USF) of the Armed Forces of Ukraine carried out 108 combat missions, striking 88 targets belonging to the Russian occupiers. 558 5 Previously in trend: Drone attack on Russian regions Drone industry

Russia has converted the Molniya UAV into a mothership drone. What is known? Russians have converted "Molniya" attack UAV into mothership drone, - serviceman. PHOTOS The Russian military has converted the Molniya kamikaze drone into a mothership drone capable of carrying other FPV UAVs. 3 418 5 Previously in trend: Drone industry

Shmyhal meets with U.S. lawmakers: key points of discussion Shmyhal discusses PURL aid mechanism and drone deal with U.S. congressional delegation. PHOTO Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal met in Kyiv with a bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation. The talks included preparations for the signing of an agreement between the presidents of Ukraine and the United States on drone production and sales. 643 5 Previously in trend: Ukraine-US relations 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

Procurement of UAVs and EW systems Government simplifies procurement rules for unmanned systems, EW equipment, and their components – Shmyhal At the initiative of the Ministry of Defence, the government has simplified the procurement procedure for unmanned systems, electronic warfare (EW) equipment and their components for the front. 623 4 Previously in trend: Procurement of drones Drone industry

Supply of drones to the Armed Forces of Ukraine State Special Communications Service handed over 352,500 drones to military in three months of 2025 In the first quarter of 2025, the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection handed over 352,500 unmanned systems of various types to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other security and defense agencies. Among them in March - more than 167 thousand. 541 4 Previously in trend: supply of drones Drones from the State Special Communications Service

interceptor drones. Interceptor drones added to DOT-Chain Defence marketplace – Shmyhal Ukraine continues to simplify and speed up the process of supplying its Defence Forces with cutting-edge capabilities. 444 5 Previously in trend: Interceptor drones Drone industry DOT-Chain Defence