In 2025, Ukraine will significantly increase the production of unmanned aerial vehicles, planning to release up to 2.5 million drones. This is a 150% increase compared to last year, when approximately 1 million units were manufactured. To develop the Ukrainian drone industry, the Ministry of Defense has allocated over $2.5 billion for 2024–2025, signing contracts with 76 manufacturing companies. In total, over 500 enterprises are involved in supplying the army.
This is reported by Business • Media
Growth of International Support and Innovations
In addition to its own production, Ukraine is receiving drones from foreign partners. In particular, the United Kingdom plans to increase drone supplies by 900%, delivering 100,000 units to Ukraine by April 2026. Significant support is also provided by German manufacturers.
Ukrainian FPV drones, which cost as little as $400, have already proven their effectiveness against Russian military equipment. According to estimates by RUSI analysts, up to 70% of Russian equipment losses on the battlefield are caused by drone strikes.
New Developments and Mass Production
Recently, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has authorized the use of a new unmanned aerial complex, Chief-1, developed by Ukrainian engineers. This drone is designed to target enemy aircraft and ground forces.
Meanwhile, the startup Buntar Aerospace has presented the reconnaissance drone Buntar-3, which is resistant to electronic warfare measures. The new model has already been tested in combat conditions, and the company is preparing to launch mass production.
“Ukrainian FPV drones, which cost as little as $400, are capable of disabling and even destroying expensive Russian military equipment. According to RUSI estimates, up to 70% of Russian equipment losses are the result of drone attacks.”
According to industry experts, the Ukrainian defense industry is capable of producing about 10 million drones annually, opening up broad prospects for the development of this sector.