Ukraine is changing the rules of the game in the defense industry. Instead of simply asking for help, Kyiv is launching a large-scale program for the joint production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with partners around the world. The initiative, dubbed "Drone Deals," has already united the efforts of Kyiv and nine countries, turning Ukrainian developments into an export product with a global reputation.

A New Formula for Partnership

The interaction scheme is built with utmost honesty and transparency. Ukraine brings to this alliance what no one else has: real combat experience, algorithms tested in the fire, and ready-made, fine-tuned products. European partners, in turn, provide the financial base, powerful production facilities, access to certification, and their own sales markets.

Robotics expert Valeriy Yakovenko emphasizes the paradigm shift: "Ukraine is no longer treated as a resource base. Now it is an equal partner, and in matters of tactics and technology—even a leader with more experience."

Geography of Production: From Scandinavia to the Balkans

As part of the "Build with Ukraine" initiative, assembly lines are being launched on the territory of allies where there is no threat of shelling. This allows for scaling up the production of equipment without risk to personnel and equipment.

Key directions include:

  • Norway: Oslo and Kyiv have launched the first joint production. This involves the release of thousands of drones directly for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
  • Germany: The most active industrial track with an established assembly line.
  • Scandinavia: Denmark, Finland, and Latvia are actively joining the production.
  • United Kingdom: Cooperation has reached the level of long-term programs and capacity creation.
  • Netherlands: Agreements cover not only drones but also missiles and electronic warfare systems.
  • Romania: Assembly of UAVs from the company "Wild Wasps" and other manufacturers is planned on the territory of the country.

Strategic Significance and Challenges

At the European Union level, the SAFE program is in operation, which integrates Ukrainian manufacturers into common supply chains. Vice Prime Minister Taras Kachka notes that such formats allow for building not one-off deals, but long-term strategic alliances.

However, Kyiv's ambitions go far beyond Europe. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has already proposed to the King of Bahrain to conclude a similar deal and share the experience of defending the sky. This did not go unnoticed: according to intercepted documents, Russian intelligence considers the sabotage of these deals its foreign policy priority, especially regarding countries in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf. Ukraine is turning drones into a tool of diplomacy, and this trend is only gaining momentum.