Ukraine intensifies the development of its own defense technologies and has already taken a significant step in strengthening air defense-four state contracts for the production of drones-interceptors have been concluded. This was announced by Defense Minister Denis Shmigal on Wednesday, July 23.
The total cost of signed agreements exceeds UAH 3 billion. Three Ukrainian manufacturing companies have already received orders for the supply of modern unmanned vehicles that are able to intercept enemy drones, in particular Iranian "Shahda", which are massively used by Russia for attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.
“The state develops the market of Ukrainian drones. Yesterday three manufacturers received state contracts. In total, we already have four contracts for over UAH 3 billion. We will further scale these technologies, ”Smigal said in his Telegram channel.
The minister noted that the priority is to ensure the front of modern technologies. That is why key government agencies, engineers and volunteer initiatives combine efforts to effectively develop drones innovations.
Shmigal also spoke about meeting with representatives of the Brave1 defense innovation cluster, the ministry of digital transformation, drone manufacturers and volunteer funds. One of the main focuses of the discussion was the drones-interceptors, designed to strengthen the counteraction of air threats.
“They focused on providing our warriors on the front lines. Much attention was paid to the drone-interceptors who are able to counteract the Russian "Shahaned". The President has set the task of developing this area. And we already have four state contracts with manufacturers, ”he added.
In addition, the state is working on financial mechanisms for supporting the industry. According to the Minister, negotiations with state banks on lending drones under state guarantees continued this week.
Shmigal also confirmed that the Ministry of Defense was negotiating with international partners to attract additional funding for the purchase of interceptors. The first arrangements have already been reached, which opens up new prospects for scale scale.
