Lithuanian defense company Unmanned Defense Systems (UDS) has announced the launch of operations in Ukraine through a new joint venture named UDS Ukraine. The office will work closely with Ukraine's Defense Forces and local technological developers, ensuring the rapid deployment of advanced unmanned systems directly to the front lines.

Tasks and Product Line of UDS Ukraine

The primary focus areas for the Ukrainian division will include technical support for product deployment, comprehensive training for UAV operators, and continuous collaboration with military units. According to company management, this format significantly shortens the timeline from a military request to the practical implementation of an engineering solution. Furthermore, the combat feedback of Ukrainian users will be directly integrated into further development cycles.

UDS manufactures unmanned systems for reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition (ISTAR), high-precision strikes, and troop management. The product line features the FORECASTER reconnaissance UAV, the AVENGER 5 strike drone, the multi-purpose HAULER, and the SWARM C2 software platform. All systems feature an open architecture, enabling seamless integration with third-party platforms and combat management systems.

Localization Strategy and Expert Background

Stepan Veselovsky, CEO and co-owner of UDS Ukraine, emphasized that the company is purposefully built as a Ukrainian entity rather than a foreign vendor selling products in the country. Co-founder Vitenis Buzas noted that the goal is long-term presence and integration into the local ecosystem. Lithuanian Ambassador to Ukraine Inga Stanytė-Toločkienė supported the move, stating that physical presence in Ukraine has become a necessity for defense companies aiming to test technologies in real combat conditions.

The founders bring a strong aerospace background. Vitenis Buzas previously initiated Lithuania's first national satellite mission, LituanicaSAT-1, and co-founded NanoAvionics, serving as CEO until its acquisition by Norway's KONGSBERG in 2022. Co-founder Žilvinas Kvedaravičius spent over seven years developing NanoAvionics' international business, bringing high-level management expertise to UDS.

Broader Context: Western Defense Expansion in Ukraine

The establishment of UDS's office coincides with a wider expansion of Western military corporations in Ukraine. Alongside UDS, major players like Germany's Rheinmetall are building joint ventures, securing land for ammunition plants, and adapting their strategic outlook based on modern warfare insights from Ukraine.