Amid the wave of headlines about AI drones and “killer robots,” the reality is that most drone operations are still conducted by humans, and this is changing only gradually. That is why operator training remains critical and will continue to be so in the coming years. Ukrainian company Athlon Avia, in addition to producing drones, also invests in training operators for its platforms, recognizing that the reputation and effectiveness of a system depend to a significant extent on the people who use it.

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In the hands of skilled and well-trained personnel, even relatively simple systems can achieve exceptional results. In Ukraine, experienced operators routinely conduct FPV drone missions at ranges of 15, 20, or even 25 kilometers, while an inexperienced soldier may struggle to fly the same type of drone even a few kilometers.

Looking back at a recent example: when I first heard about the highly successful American-made Hornet drones equipped with AI technologies, what caught my attention was not only the drone itself, but the unit operating it: the Azov Corps, one of Ukraine’s most capable military formations, with highly experienced drone operators. So, the drone’s effectiveness can be attributed not only to its technical characteristics, but also to the skill of its users.

In a conversation with Serhii Mokreniuk, representative of Ukrainian company Athlon Avia, I learned about several areas of their work that are unusual for a drone manufacturer. The company trains drone operators, invests in motivating and developing pilots, and works to ensure that battlefield lessons are captured, shared, and integrated into military practice. The company believes that more industry representatives should adopt this approach.

Reconnaissance UAV Furia

The flagship product of Athlon Avia is Furia, one of the first fixed-wing reconnaissance drones used by the Ukrainian military and employed for artillery fire correction. It was first used during the liberation of Sloviansk in 2014.

The drone is designed for aerial reconnaissance by day and night. Its low radar signature, achieved through the use of composite materials, and its low-noise electric motor with a two-bladed propeller help reduce its detectability. The drone uses a combined navigation system based on inertial navigation with GPS correction. The system can determine target coordinates with high accuracy and supports automatic target tracking.

Ukrainian media Oboronka reported that the Ukrainian military had to develop tactics and operational requirements for the Furia almost from scratch. Before that, artillery firing manuals included procedures for ranging and fire correction using helicopters.

Currently, more than 100 brigades of the Ukrainian Defence Forces use Furia drones for reconnaissance and artillery fire correction. There are pilots with more than 1,000 flight hours who can operate for months without losing a single aircraft.

Today, the Furia can remain airborne for more than four hours, operate at altitudes of up to 3 km, and fly more than 50 km from its launch point. Earlier versions had an endurance of approximately two hours.

There is an expectation that the UAVs will soon move toward greater autonomy and wider use of artificial intelligence.

Russian sources describe the Furia as one of the main “workhorses” of Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance and have sought to study both its design and tactics of employment. For example, the Russian KCPN Analytical Center obtained and translated three versions of the Furia flight operations manual from 2022, 2023, and 2024, stating that comparing them could reveal how the system has evolved and the direction of Ukrainian design development.

Before the full-scale invasion, Athlon Avia produced around 25 Furia A1-SM systems per year. Since each system includes three aircraft, this amounted to roughly 75 drones annually. As of March 2025, the manufacturer was producing at least 200 Furia drones per month. The situation has now changed, and demand from the military for the product has increased significantly.

Importance of Training Operators

For Athlon Avia, increasing drone production is only one part of the challenge. The company argues that manufacturers also need to invest in the people, training systems, and mechanisms for transferring combat experience that determine how effectively their equipment is ultimately used on the battlefield.

“Any system needs a properly trained crew,” Serhii Mokreniuk explained. “A piece of equipment does not work without a person, but simply having a person is not enough either. It should be a highly trained person. A trained specialist is an extremely valuable resource.”

For this reason, the company has developed several initiatives that go beyond conventional manufacturing. One of them is recruitment. The company works both with serving military personnel who want to transfer into UAV-related positions and with civilians interested in joining the Armed Forces as drone pilots.

Potential recruits receive advice on selecting a military unit and navigating the process of entering or transferring into an appropriate position. The company then trains them to operate its systems. According to the producer, this work is largely managed by veterans and people with direct knowledge of how the Ukrainian military functions.

Training is mandatory for personnel who will operate the company’s systems. From scratch, the basic course takes at least four weeks and can take longer depending on factors such as weather conditions. The curriculum follows requirements established by Ukraine’s military aviation authorities and combines theoretical and practical flight training.

The company deliberately provides a broader theoretical foundation rather than teaching pilots only the mechanics of operating a particular drone. Students study areas such as meteorology and communications so that they understand the wider operational environment in which the UAV will be employed.

The manufacturer also operates two training schools and works with other educational institutions, such as training centres for pilots and higher military educational institutions that train commanders, including the Hetman Petro Sahaidachnyi National Army Academy, the S. P. Koroliov Zhytomyr Military Institute, the National Defence University of Ukraine, the Odesa Military Academy, among others.

This is particularly important because knowledge in drone warfare becomes obsolete extremely quickly. “We are developing at such a fast pace that knowledge from 2019 is no longer relevant at all, while some knowledge from early 2026 is already outdated today,” Serhii said. “The military simply cannot always update everything quickly enough because institutional procedures are inevitably more bureaucratic.”

When the company facilitates the transfer of knowledge from experienced pilots to less experienced pilots, it also obtains high-quality data about the system itself and how it performs under specific combat conditions. This then becomes valuable input for its R&D directorate.

That is why it is important for manufacturers to develop and support the broader user community around their products. “We call ours Furia Family — an environment where everyone is constantly learning and where anyone can receive support both from the company and from fellow service members. The motto of our Furia Family community is: ‘I have a mission!’” Serhii told me.

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Turning Combat Experience into Institutional Knowledge

Another major focus of Athlon Avia is ensuring that battlefield experience does not remain confined to individual pilots or units.

The company has created a mechanism through which some of the most experienced and motivated pilots can transfer their knowledge to less experienced operators. The formats can be relatively simple. For example, when the company identifies a particular knowledge gap among crews, it may organize a webinar for 20–40 pilots and invite experienced operators to explain how they approach the problem.

“In many cases, they are essentially teaching each other,” the representative said. “We simply help them organize the process.”

The company has also experimented with much more systematic methods of capturing combat experience.

Last year, it organized a competition in which drone pilots were asked to describe one of their combat missions according to a structured template. The template was based on established approaches to analysing lessons learned and was designed to encourage pilots and crews to assess how a mission had been prepared and conducted.

The submissions were then reviewed by six judges, including instructors, university faculty members and military specialists. Each evaluator used their own criteria, producing an assessment framework that collectively included more than 120 parameters.

The purpose was not simply to select the best submission. The process allowed the company to identify recurring gaps in the pilots’ knowledge and determine what operators themselves were failing to analyse after missions.

The results eventually developed into a much greater effort. Serving military personnel were invited to jointly produce practical guidance on the employment of reconnaissance UAVs. Around 20 authors contributed to a manual covering 30 topics. The company subsequently brought instructors and service members together to develop five standardized operating procedures.

The producer says one of the most interesting outcomes was the pilots' reaction. Some participants who had helped write the documents said that the process of systematically describing and analysing their own experience had caused them to reconsider their role and place within the combat command-and-control system, as well as the approach to carrying out combat missions

Although none of this work directly changes the drone's physical characteristics, the manufacturer believes it has significantly improved the quality of its use in combat.

“This work is completely unrelated to manufacturing the product itself, but it strengthened the quality of combat missions so much that we could see the effect ourselves,” Serhii told me. “That is why we continue doing it.”

Why Drone Manufacturers Should Care About Educating Pilots

The company believes this model could and should be replicated by other defence manufacturers. Manufacturers have a direct interest in increasing the competence of the personnel operating their systems. A poorly trained crew can make an effective system appear ineffective, while experienced operators are better able to exploit the equipment’s full capabilities.

The difference between crews can already be enormous. Some operators may fly for a year without losing a single aircraft, while another crew can lose three UAVs within a week. That discrepancy cannot always be explained by the equipment itself.

There is another benefit as well: identifying, recording and “crystallizing” knowledge that would otherwise disappear when experienced personnel rotate, transfer or leave their positions.

The company says it has spoken publicly about its methodology and would be willing to share it with other manufacturers. So far, however, relatively few producers have adopted similar approaches. Some may not understand why this should be their responsibility, while others are simply overwhelmed by the immediate demands of production.

Yet the company believes even limited adoption could have a significant effect. “If even 10 percent of weapons manufacturers launched similar processes, the effectiveness of the military would increase,” the representative argued.

According to Serhii, the greatest value of Ukraine’s Defence Forces is its people, and that’s why the company invests in them. That is why Ukrainian pilots are better than Russian ones. “But we still have a problem with scaling unique combat expertise — transferring the best practices to other units, training centers, and military educational institutions,” he said.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that Ukraine offers a different model of defence production and acquisition from the traditional approach, in which manufacturers simply deliver equipment according to technical specifications set by the state authorities.

The Ukrainian model is very end-user-centric. Because military units have direct purchasing power, they assess not only equipment itself, but also the level of service that the company provides. Does the manufacturer provide a 24/7 support line? Can it quickly modify the product in response to battlefield needs? Is it ready to work directly with the unit after delivery?

Ukraine’s drone market is extremely competitive, and the strongest companies seek to distinguish themselves not only through technical characteristics, but also through the additional support they provide to military units using their products.

Some initiatives, such as the one described above, take this model a step further by introducing a broader sense of responsibility. In these cases, industry takes the lead in areas that remain underprioritized institutionally, such as capturing, systematizing, and disseminating battlefield lessons.

Some manufacturers in Ukraine invest not only in improving the effectiveness of their own products, but also in strengthening the effectiveness of the Defence Forces as a whole.

This is a model that Western industry representatives should aspire to: not simply producing equipment but taking greater responsibility for how effectively that equipment is used.

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Check out other relevant reports:

• Drone warfare in Ukraine: Hornet strike drones;

• Training Drone Operators in Wartime Ukraine: Dronarium Academy;

• Heavy Bombers: A Pilot of “Vampire” Tells About His Daily Operations.

If you are looking for concise, 2-page weekly reports on drone warfare in Ukraine and Russia, here is my Ukraine Drone Brief (available to VIP subscribers).

In Ukraine and Russia, the value of human life differs. The loss of each servicemember is a profound tragedy for Ukrainian society. This is why many efforts, both on the battlefield and in innovation, are focused on saving as many lives as possible.

In this context, tactical medicine plays a particularly important role, and any country that seeks to build a capable, combat-ready army must strive to employ all available tools to train its personnel in this field.

Innovation is also advancing in the field of tactical medicine, and today I will present one such example—the LifesaverSIM mobile simulator, developed by the Ukrainian team. It is based on TCCC protocols and strongly incorporates Ukraine’s battlefield experience.

Ukraine’s Arms Monitor is a reader-supported publication. The content in this newsletter is not sponsored by any individual or organization. If you wish to support my work, please consider a paid subscription.

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Tactical Medical Training in Ukraine

In Ukraine, every service member must possess the skills required to stabilize a casualty until transfer to professional medical personnel. According to Ukraine’s MoD, tactical medical training is based on the international TCCC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care) protocol, a standardized training program for tactical battlefield casualty care, with the M.A.R.C.H. algorithm at its core.

M.A.R.C.H. represents a clear sequence of actions, where each letter corresponds to a critical life-threatening condition. The first priority (M) is controlling Massive hemorrhage, as it accounts for approximately 60% of preventable deaths. Soldiers are trained to apply a tourniquet to a limb within 20–30 seconds, acting almost automatically even under extreme stress.

The next steps include:

• A (Airway): ensuring airway patency

• R (Respiration): sealing penetrating chest wounds with occlusive dressings to support breathing

• C (Circulation): monitoring blood circulation and signs of shock

• H (Hypothermia): preventing hypothermia using thermal blankets

The use of a unified M.A.R.C.H. algorithm creates a shared “language” between the first responder and the combat medic receiving the casualty. This significantly reduces confusion and minimizes critical errors during handover.

The training process is structured in phases that reflect the realities of combat. Under simulated enemy fire, soldiers are taught only the most essential skills—self-aid and rapid tourniquet application. Training is based on the use of an individual first aid kit. A key rule is that aid is provided using the injured soldier’s own kit, ensuring that the responder does not deplete their own lifesaving resources.

A more comprehensive assessment following the M.A.R.C.H. algorithm is conducted in the cover. According to MoD, another important principle is the “two-hour rule”: a properly applied tourniquet can remain in place for up to two hours without causing irreversible tissue damage, providing a critical window for evacuation.

However, the co-founder of LifesaverSIM, Olesia Dyachyshyn, noted that in modern warfare, there is no such thing as a “golden hour”—not even two hours. “Evacuation may not be possible for two or even five days. That’s why a tourniquet saves lives,” she mentioned.

According to updated programs from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, starting in December 2025, the medical training component of basic military training tripled to 30 hours of intensive instruction.

In February 2026, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted an updated Military Medical Doctrine developed by the MoD. The document defines medical planning as an integral part of operational planning at all levels. The involvement of medical service personnel in the planning of combat operations and the sustainment of units is now mandatory.

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What is LifesaverSIM?

LifesaverSIM is a Ukrainian-developed mobile training simulator for tactical medicine.

Training is delivered through realistic, mission-based scenarios on a smartphone or tablet, allowing users to practice providing medical aid to wounded personnel in combat conditions.

LifesaverSIM is developed in accordance with TCCC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care) protocols. The platform continuously monitors updates to these protocols and is rapidly updated to reflect any changes.

The simulator currently includes two tactical medicine training courses:

• ASM (All Service Members)

• CLS (Combat Lifesaver)

Both were originally designed exclusively for military use. However, given the realities of war in Ukraine, ASM-level knowledge is increasingly used by civilians as well.

In practice, CLS-level training is also becoming relevant for civilians: it is now taught to high school students (grades 10–11) as part of the National Resistance curriculum, and to university students within basic military training programs.

In addition, the simulator includes a civilian-focused section on pre-medical care, featuring the course “Stop Massive Bleeding.”

For military personnel, since February 2026, the platform has been available through a dedicated access system Army+. No personal data is required—profiles are created anonymously. Training is not limited by time or number of attempts and remains available offline after downloading the materials.

The LifesaverSIM team is actively expanding its civilian training, responding to growing demand—particularly from European countries. It is currently available for use in Europe, North America, and Australia.

Focus on Cognitive Skills

Within LifesaverSIM, users develop essential cognitive skills:

• Thinking in line with TCCC and M.A.R.C.H. logic—understanding why actions are performed in a certain way

• Rapid situation assessment—identifying critical threats in the first minutes

• Decision-making under time pressure—executing the correct sequence of actions within seconds or minutes

• Learning from mistakes—reviewing outcomes of correct and incorrect decisions, as well as time delays, through a personal Rescuer Log

• Internalizing the algorithm—so that during instructor-led training, users can transition more quickly to hands-on practice.

For instructors teaching tactical medicine, this is a tool for managing training groups.

The company offers the development of customized training and simulation courses tailored to specific needs and requirements

User Feedback

To gather feedback on the use of the LifesaverSIM, I connected with two elite Ukrainian military formations—the Azov Brigade and the Third Army Corps.

“Yizhak”, a staff sergeant of the tactical medicine group within the medical department of the Third Army Corps, noted that Ukraine has a strong and resilient community of practitioners working in tactical medicine. When LifesaverSIM was still in development, he applied to join the beta testing phase and experimented with the early version. At the time, the simulator did not leave a strong impression on him.

However, later his unit reconnected with the developers and began piloting the application in training courses. After observing its effectiveness in practice, they worked with the LifesaverSIM team to create a version tailored to the Third Army Corps' training program.

Since 2026, LifesaverSIM has been formally integrated into all tactical medicine courses conducted by the Third Army Corps, where it is used as “homework” to reinforce learning outside the classroom.

“I’m not aware of any similar applications that run directly on a smartphone and can be used for training without the need to purchase VR headsets, computers, or laptops. We allow trainees to use the simulator directly on their own devices. That is its first key advantage over anything else I’ve seen.

The second advantage is that it is a Ukrainian-developed product. In our tactical medicine training, we rely heavily on international combat casualty care guidelines, particularly the American TCCC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care). At the same time, we incorporate Ukraine’s own combat experience. As a result, our treatment protocols do not fully align with Western guidelines in every aspect.

A Ukrainian developer can work closely with us and adapt the system to our needs—how we train personnel, how specific procedures are performed, and what indications we use for particular interventions or types of battlefield injuries. This course has been developed specifically for us, taking into account our operational experience,” Yizhak said.

He added that the simulator cannot replace an instructor or hands-on practice. No matter how many times you apply a tourniquet in LifesaverSIM, it is not the same as mastering the skill physically.

However, it reinforces previously learned material outside of formal training sessions. Step by step, users revisit and repeat what they have already been taught. From a learning perspective, this works particularly well for both skill retention and recall.

Serhii “Jedi,” commander of the instructor unit of the medical company of the Azov Brigade, shared with Ukraine’s Arms Monitor that LifesaverSIM is integrated into the Azov’s training system and forms part of its tactical medicine course. “At the early stages of training—once recruits have already acquired a basic foundation of knowledge and skills—we incorporate work with the LifesaverSIM simulator into the curriculum. This helps develop algorithms, sequences of actions, and decision-making processes,” he added.

According to Serhii, “The simulator gives trainees an unlimited number of “free” mistakes. Practicing sequences and working with indications and contraindications—an essential part of decision-making—is all enabled by the simulator. LifesaverSIM features excellent design and gameplay and is highly intuitive. I have personally seen how even older trainees, who often struggle with modern technology and devices, quickly mastered the simulator’s interface and enthusiastically “saved” everyone in sight”.

International Recognition and Cooperation

The simulator's effectiveness has also been validated by international researchers. A study conducted by a multinational team from the Karolinska Institutet, the Jagiellonian University, and the Swedish Armed Forces examined how gamified VPs can support TCCC training by analyzing the shared experiences of military medics and instructors. The researchers confirmed that the simulator creates a “safe failure” environment, lowering psychological barriers and enabling repeated practice, which in turn fosters correct medical decision-making. At the same time, the report's authors warn that designers and educators should consider which game elements support learning in high-stakes contexts and which may distract from it. Particular attention should be given to balancing potentially conflicting features, such as hints, scoring, and realism.

In addition, last year, Linköping University conducted a comparative study involving two groups: one trained using traditional methods, and the other using LifesaverSIM. The study found that participants training with LifesaverSim were significantly better at remembering and initiating actions included in the MARCH protocol than participants training with the established learning platform Deployed Medicine. At the same time, the group using Deployed Medicine reported that the lack of guidance negatively affected their learning experience, while participants playing LifesaverSim found that the game's tutorials were overly guiding, which negatively affected their learning experience.

The project’s international engagement extends beyond academic collaboration. Following its release in several NATO countries at the end of 2025, LifesaverSIM has already been piloted with military personnel in Scandinavian and Baltic countries. In Estonia, the simulator is currently undergoing pilot testing both within the Estonian Defence Forces and the Estonian Defence League.

Beyond Europe, the project has expanded globally. Last year, two pilot programs were conducted at the Higher Medical School of the Japan Self-Defense Forces.

The team is now moving toward deep-tech innovation. Planned developments include:

• an AI-driven instructor capable of analyzing user performance and generating personalized training recommendations;

• a hyper-realistic virtual patient with a full physiological model that responds dynamically to user actions;

• an NLP-to-Simulation tool, allowing instructors to describe real combat scenarios in text, which the system then converts into interactive training missions.

In Search of Partnerships

The team is open to joint pilot projects with foreign military units, civilian emergency services, and humanitarian organizations to test the system in different operational environments.
Additionally, the Ukrainian team is seeking partnerships with research institutes and universities to study the impact of immersive, gamified learning on cognitive skill development, decision-making speed, performance in final practical assessments, and long-term knowledge retention.

Priority partners:

• Academic institutions and research centers for joint studies;

• Foreign military and civilian organizations for integration into training systems;

• Industry partners, particularly manufacturers of tactical medical equipment (e.g., tourniquets, bandages), for co-development and integration into simulations;

• Organizations with large user networks operating in high-risk environments (e.g., extreme sports, industrial climbing, rescue services, specialized security structures), where high-quality training is critical.

With the full-scale war entering its fifth year, and hybrid threats from Russia expanding across Europe, more and more states are investing in comprehensive national defence training programs and considering a “whole-of-society” approach to defence.

For example, in 2026, the Ministry of National Defence of Poland plans to train approximately 400,000 individuals across key areas such as security, survival, medicine, and cyber hygiene.

Europe increasingly recognizes that civil–military cooperation is essential for turning preparedness into action. This approach brings together a country’s armed forces, civilian institutions, and the broader population to address a wide spectrum of security threats and strengthen national resilience.

Tools such as LifesaverSIM present a clear opportunity to engage broad segments of society and equip them with essential knowledge of first aid and tactical medicine. There is no need to wait for conflict—education and preparedness must begin now.

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Read similar articles on the topic:

• Training Drone Operators in Wartime Ukraine: Dronarium Academy;

• Turning Virtual Errors into Ukraine’s Battlefield Advantage: Drone Simulator Obriy;

• (Un)Manned Warfare: 80% of Drone Success Depends on Pilot Skill;

• Importance of Operator Training for Interceptor Drones: Kruk Drones UAV Training Center.

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In discussions on training drone pilots, the role of simulators often remains understated. In reality, the simulators are used not only at the beginning of the learning curve but continuously, even after deployment to the front line. Basic drone piloting can be learned even on civilian simulators, but this is not enough.

Some modern platforms, such as Obriy by Twist Robotics, allow users to upload real-world terrain and recreate it in detail, including objects, vegetation, buildings, and even elevation changes. This enables pilots to prepare for specific areas where they will be deployed—understanding where the front line is, where targets are located, and how to plan routes accordingly.

I first learned about Obriy from a drone pilot in one of Ukraine’s elite units, and I could not let this topic pass me by.

This article is based on interviews with Twist Robotics and Ukrainian military personnel.

Ukraine’s Arms Monitor is a reader-supported publication. The content in this newsletter is not sponsored by any individual or organization. If you wish to support my work, please consider a paid subscription.

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Drone Simulators: Civilian and Military Applications

Drone simulators are actively used in Ukraine by training centers and in the Armed Forces. They are also widely available to civilians willing to develop drone piloting skills.

Serhii Tkachuk, founder and instructor of the “Free Sky Ukraine” children’s center, said in an interview with Tyzhden that drone piloting can be effectively learned through simulators. These tools allow operators to master up to 90% of what a drone can do. Most importantly, simulators help develop muscle memory and train the coordination between vision, hand movements, and cognitive processing.

There is a wide range of civilian simulators available, with some of the most popular including FPV Freerider, Drone Champions League Simulator (DCL), Liftoff, and Uncrashed. Each of them offers distinct features and helps develop different skill sets.

Training in simulators begins with basic modes and progressively advances to more complex scenarios. This structured approach enables pilots to build confidence and technical proficiency over time, including for those with slower reaction speeds.

Learning to fly a drone can be done independently with minimal financial investment. A user can simply download a simulator and begin training—some even offer free demo versions, such as FPV Freerider. At the early stages, there is no need to invest in dedicated hardware, as basic control can be performed via a touchscreen smartphone. In fact, this is how many operators begin—only transitioning to a controller and an actual drone later on.

Experts do not recommend immediately purchasing a drone and attempting to fly it: “Most likely, you’ll just crash it—and be lucky if no one gets injured. A better approach is to start by buying a controller, downloading a simulator, and logging at least 30 hours of training. It’s crucial that these hours are spread over multiple days—40 hours over 20 days and 40 hours over 4 days will produce very different results, as key neural connections form during sleep”.

There is a common perception that flying a real drone is easier than using a simulator. “In practice, this is largely because simulator training builds foundational skills that are later applied almost intuitively in real-world flight. Operators rely on these acquired reflexes without consciously thinking about them,” Serhiy shared.

Those with prior experience in video games—particularly strategy games such as World of Tanks—often acquire drone piloting skills more quickly, as they are already accustomed to spatial awareness, coordination, and real-time decision-making.

In practice, individual FPV piloting skills—such as completing courses—represent only part of what a drone operator needs to master. Equally important are:

• understanding the drone’s components and modules;

• knowing why specific issues or flight behaviors occur;

• being able to diagnose battery-related problems;

• maintaining situational awareness and navigating terrain during flight;

• understanding radio systems and signal management;

• operating the ground control station.

It is important to highlight that Russia is also increasingly investing in training its unmanned forces personnel, as well as civilians, including children, in drone technologies, with simulators playing a significant role.

DOXA analyzed Russia’s public procurement database and found that in 2024, schools and supplementary education institutions spent nearly 540 million rubles (approximately $6 mln) on training in drone operation and construction. In total, educational institutions across 39 regions of Russia were involved in these procurements.

In 2024, Russian schools were procuring simulators that replicate drone flights with combat missions and the capability to drop explosives, FPV drones, and UAV production labs.

Among the requirements for simulators, a St. Petersburg children’s supplementary education center, “Center for Physical Culture and Health,” specified the inclusion of missions involving the destruction of CAESAR systems and Leopard tanks. Similarly, requirements for a simulator in a school in the Kronstadt district included a setting in which the operator could “carry out combat tasks by locating and destroying equipment hidden in the least noticeable areas.”

Previously, I highlighted the importance of civilian simulators for drone pilot training in both Ukraine and Russia in my presentation for the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research.

Most civilian simulators focus primarily on replicating the flight of an aircraft—its aerodynamics, in-flight behavior, and basic control scenarios.

Military training platforms also simulate the physics of drone flight, but treat it as just one component of a broader mission-level model. They integrate multiple layers of simulation, including the behavior of different UAV types, environmental conditions, and mission execution logic.

Users often operate within precise digital replicas of real-world frontline sectors, allowing them to plan missions while accounting for terrain, communication conditions, signal shadowing, and the impact of electronic warfare—constraints that ultimately determine mission success in real-world operations.

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Obriy Drone Training Platform

The focus of this article is a military simulator, Obriy, developed by the Ukrainian company Twist Robotics. The company specializes in the development of unmanned aerial systems, including AI-assisted visual navigation, FPV reconnaissance and strike drones, and GPS-resilient flight control systems. It also develops training and simulation tools for drone pilots and designs platforms capable of operating in environments with electronic warfare.

Obriy is a professional tactical training platform for unmanned systems pilots, designed to replicate battlefield conditions as closely as possible. It serves as a mission planning and crew coordination tool, enabling operators to practice strike and reconnaissance tactics.

Users have access to over 50,000 km² of real frontline terrain, reconstructed using satellite data. Obriy covers the entire line of contact across Ukraine. The platform’s map is structured into 35×35 km sectors, forming continuous coverage along the frontline.

The simulator models terrain features, communication conditions, the impact of electronic warfare, and other factors that shape real-world missions. This allows training to take place in an environment that closely mirrors actual operational conditions.

Obriy was developed based on practical experience gained from UAV deployment during the full-scale war. As unmanned technologies evolved and the operational environment became more complex, the need emerged for a tool that integrates pilot and team training with mission planning in a real combat context. Missions within the platform are based on current military tasks and are designed to closely reflect real operations.

Terrain data is updated with each simulator release. Following synchronization with open-source analytical data on frontline changes—particularly from DeepState—new configurations of the battlefield are integrated into Obriy.

In addition to baseline frontline coverage, the simulator allows for the creation of custom locations tailored to the needs of specific units or partners, with varying levels of depth and detail.

“The platform evolves through direct engagement with military personnel and unmanned systems developers. User requests for new scenarios, types of equipment, or countermeasure models are integrated into subsequent versions of the platform. In this way, Ukrainian combat experience does not remain confined to individual units—it is formalized and embedded into the broader training system,” shared Twist Robotics with Ukraine’s Arms Monitor.

Today, Obriy is used by more than 50 training centers and over 150 combat units and educational initiatives in Ukraine. Ukrainian military personnel are granted free access to the platform.

The simulator is not distributed to civilian users and may not be shared with third parties. A single license allows Obriy to be installed on only one computer.

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What Types of Missions are Supported by Obriy

For UAV operators, Obriy provides the ability to refine both technical skills and tactical employment, rehearse missions, prepare for operations in electronic warfare (EW) environments, and practice complex routes prior to real deployment—without risking equipment.

For training centers, Obriy serves as a tool for standardizing instruction, conducting safe training, and improving crew coordination.

For developers of unmanned systems, Obriy functions as a high-precision virtual R&D testing ground, significantly accelerating the development and validation of new technologies. Its Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) capability enables the integration of real controller firmware (such as Betaflight and ArduPilot) and the testing of experimental navigation algorithms in near-realistic conditions.

The platform supports a wide range of combat scenarios involving different types of UAVs. These include FPV drones, bombers, strike platforms for ground targets, as well as interceptor drones and aircraft—each with its own control logic and operational use.

The simulation environment can incorporate broader battlefield elements, including infantry, armored vehicles, artillery, and other forces. This enables users to train a wide spectrum of tactical applications—from intercepting aerial threats to protecting critical infrastructure and holding operational sectors.

The promotional video for Obriy was released in May 2025.

How Does Obriy Account for the Impact of Enemy EW?

In Obriy, the impact of electronic warfare is modeled as an integral part of the operational environment. The platform takes into account terrain, the radio horizon, communication conditions, and the positioning of EW systems.

The simulator includes different types of EW systems—stationary complexes, trench-based systems for position protection, dome-type systems mounted on vehicles, and mobile solutions. When a drone or ground control station enters its area of effect, the simulator reproduces various signal degradation scenarios, including GPS denial, partial or complete loss of control links, and disruption of video transmission.

This allows operators to train both drone behavior and their own responses in conditions of degraded or lost communication—before facing them in real missions.

Obriy Anti-Shahed

Since interceptor drones have become one of the most effective tools against Russian Shahed-type drones, a new version of the simulator—Obriy Anti-Shahed—was released in mid-March 2026. It enables operators to train for intercepting Shahed-type drones and prepares them to operate against such aerial threats.

Militarnyi reported that work on this platform began in summer 2024, and throughout 2025, the system was successfully scaled across short-range air defence units.

The new version introduces a radar module that simulates the operation of radar systems at distances up to 25 km. The software replicates the full air defence cycle—from detecting and tracking aerial targets on a tactical map to decision-making about engagement.

The platform also includes models of modern interceptor systems used by short-range air defence units. In particular, users can train with platforms such as OCTOPUS and Sting, practicing their employment in aerial interception scenarios.

End-User Feedback

A Ukrainian Armed Forces serviceman, Stanislav, shared the following overview of Obriy on his TikTok in 2024:

“You can select the type of drone, adjust its settings, calibrate the controller, and configure the graphics. But what’s most interesting is something else—these are real maps of active combat areas. On these maps, you can define the takeoff point, set up relay systems, and mark where the enemy is, including their EW positions.

It’s convenient because you are flying over the same terrain where you actually operate. The maps are based on Google Maps, and if you set the graphics to maximum, you get full 3D environments—with trees, buildings, everything. Access to the platform is restricted: active-duty servicemen can request access by submitting an official letter from their military unit.”

A drone pilot from one of Ukraine’s elite units, speaking on condition of anonymity, described Obriy as one of the most effective training tools because it covers the full cycle of both pilot and navigator preparation. He learned about this platform from more experienced operators.

“We can study road patterns, navigate in difficult conditions—fog, rain, smoke—and, most importantly, train as a team. The pilot, navigator, and sapper work together, making decisions under limited visibility and constant interference. That’s what makes the training feel close to real combat,” he said.

A Ukrainian serviceman described the difference between the roles of a drone pilot and a navigator. The pilot is focused entirely on flying—often in FPV goggles—while the navigator works with the map, analyzes terrain, and guides the pilot to the target coordinates. If one person tries to do both, it quickly becomes cognitive overload—we call it a ‘fire in the helmet.’

“When we arrive in a new area, I use Obriy whenever I have a free moment to study the terrain and understand where and how I will fly,” he added.

As the frontline evolves, the Obriy team rapidly updates the maps to ensure the simulator reflects current operational realities.

Similar work has also been conducted in Russia. There are specialized simulators often developed in cooperation with major defence manufacturers such as Kalashnikov Concern and Almaz-Antey. In 2024, Kalashnikov Concern informed that the developers of the Skat 350M reconnaissance UAV have released a simulator for training drone operators.

In November 2025, a St. Petersburg-based company, Ninsar, developed “the first drone kinetic interception simulator in Russia”. The new Anti-UAV mode has been integrated into the existing Kvadrosim training platform.

According to the media, the product has already been incorporated into training programs at the Mikhailovskaya Military Artillery Academy and is actively used at a new UAV training center in Tuapse to prepare operators responsible for securing coastal infrastructure.

Systematic preparation for combat and the integration of battlefield experience are key to enabling armed forces to succeed in war. While many of these developments in the preparatory phase remain largely unnoticed by wider audiences, they should not be underestimated.

The example of Twist Robotics and its Obriy platform illustrates how private initiatives, driven by small, dedicated teams, can become instrumental in war.

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Read related articles:

• Importance of Operator Training for Interceptor Drones: Kruk Drones UAV Training Center;

• Mesh Networks and EW Trends in Ukraine;

• STING Interceptor Drone by Wild Hornets: When Civil Society Powers Defence.

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“A fully autonomous drone will be like a grenade: every soldier with basic skills will be able to use it; it will operate under intense electronic warfare and function as a highly precise weapon,” says Yaroslav Azhnyuk, founder of The Fourth Law, Ukraine’s leading developer of autonomous defence technologies.

Despite significant hype, such systems are not yet widely present on the Russia–Ukraine battlefield. However, a future in which drones fly over cities like Kyiv or Moscow, autonomously selecting targets based on predefined criteria, or both sides deploy dense “wall-to-wall” waves of drones, no longer feels distant.

I’m glad to finally publish this article on The Fourth Law, a driving force behind Ukraine’s autonomous defence tech.

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The Fourth Law (TFL) was founded in 2023 by Yaroslav Azhnyuk. As many of Ukraine’s defence-tech developers, Yaroslav was previously a highly successful civilian entrepreneur. His earlier venture, Petcube, was valued at $36–50 million by Forbes in 2021. Petcube is a global leader in pet cameras (with over 1M devices shipped), which enable owners to monitor, play with, and feed their pets remotely.

In November 2023, Azhnyuk transitioned into the miltech sector and founded two companies: The Fourth Law (TFL), which develops autonomous solutions, and Odd Systems, which focuses on thermal cameras for FPVs. Both companies also produce FPV drones.

The Fourth Law team brings together engineers, scientists, and military veterans, with offices across Ukraine, the EU, and the United States. The company’s name references a hypothetical “fourth law of robotics” — an idea meant to extend the three famous laws formulated by Isaac Asimov.

The Fourth Law (TFL) has a public roadmap toward a new paradigm of warfare:

1. Last-Mile Terminal Guidance

2. Autonomous Bombing Guidance

3. Autonomous Search and Destroy

4. Full Navigation in GPS-Denied Environments

5. Autonomous Takeoff and Landing

The first level is already operational and in serial production - TFL-1 terminal guidance and cruise modules. “We are integrated with dozens of manufacturers, and this layer is continuously being refined. These are last-mile guidance systems. This is a critically important technology. It allows drones to fly farther, overcome radio-horizon constraints, and reliably reach targets at 50–90 km and beyond,” Azhnyuk said in the interview to Militarnyi in 2024.

In 2025, the company launched its operational autonomous bombing module, TFL-2.

The developers also work on neural-network–based object recognition that runs effectively on very low-cost hardware without sacrificing quality.

In 2025, TFL raised funding from a group of venture capital funds and angel investors from the EU, the US, and Canada.

TFL-1 Terminal Guidance and Cruise Modules

In July 2025, The Fourth Law announced its ready-to-use terminal guidance solution, TFL-1. Powered by machine vision, the system enables an FPV drone to automatically strike a target selected by the operator.

TFL-1 is an onboard computer running AI algorithms that takes control during the final 500 meters of flight. This approach—described by the company as “last-mile autonomy”—allows FPV drones to track all types of targets (static, moving, and camouflaged) more effectively and to operate despite EW interference, signal loss, and other battlefield constraints.

Additionally, it has a cruise mode. When a drone loses control due to jamming, it can switch into cruise mode and continue flying along its trajectory until control is restored.

In July 2025, a video was released showing the combat use of UAVs equipped with the TFL-1 system on the battlefield. For the first time in history, this footage demonstrated the systematic use of AI-enabled drones to destroy enemy targets in the terminal phase of flight.

“The video includes a short clip from Anduril showcasing its product. However, the company does not present real-world examples of its use. We therefore decided to produce a simple, straightforward video that shows real-world combat use of our own product, as it is actually employed by Ukrainian forces,” mentioned Yaroslav Azhnyuk in the podcast, emphasizing his respect towards Anduril and its founder.

The system is already in operational use across more than 30 military formations of Ukraine’s Defence Forces.

TFL-1 can be integrated into drones from more than a dozen manufacturers. The company supplies both hardware modules and software licenses to government customers and UAV producers.

The module is designed for mass production—potentially hundreds of thousands of units per month. According to the manufacturer, the upgrade increases a drone’s cost by only 10–20%, while improving mission success rates 2-4 times.

The development of TFL-1 required a deliberate engineering focus on quadcopter-based FPV platforms. As of now, the system cannot be integrated into fixed-wing platforms, such as the Bulava loitering munition. This reflects a clear prioritization: FPV drones are the most widely used systems on the frontline, making their enhancement the company’s immediate and foundational task.

With sufficient funding, the next phase will involve greater autonomy and integration across a broader range of platforms, including fixed-wing UAVs.

In September 2025, one of Ukraine’s largest FPV drone manufacturers, Vyriy Drone, and The Fourth Law announced the start of mass production of FPV drones equipped with onboard terminal-guidance systems. Azhnyuk said that most frontline drones are expected to be fitted with similar autonomy systems within the next 6-9 months.

Additionally, according to his post, 2025 marked the first successful strike against an enemy boat using the TFL-1 system, demonstrating its effective application against maritime targets.

TFL-2 Autonomous Bombing Module

In 2025, the company launched TFL-2, an autonomous bombing moduleю

This is a high-precision ground-attack system designed to reduce operator workload while significantly improving strike accuracy.

Autonomous targeting:
The operator designates a target and activates attack mode. From that point on, the module independently locks onto and tracks the target, calculates the optimal release point, and guides the drone accordingly—taking into account speed, wind, and altitude.

Payload release and evasive maneuver:
At the calculated point, the system automatically releases the munition along a ballistic trajectory. The drone then stabilizes, gains altitude, safely exits the strike area, and hands control back to the operator for return to base.

Components:
The module includes a camera, a Raspberry Pi 5, and a LiDAR unit (20 m or 50 m range).

Lupynis-10-TFL-1 FPV Drones

The company has also developed its own FPV platform — Lupynis-10-TFL-1. It is offered either as a standalone UAV or as a complete system, which includes 100 drones, a ground control station, and auxiliary equipment.

The platform's core advantage is the TFL-1 autonomy module.

Key features of Lupynis-10:

• Flight range of up to 30 km and speeds of up to 80 km/h.

• Combat payload of up to 4 kg.

• Price on the Brave1 Marketplace: UAH 20,500 ($480), comparable to most similar FPV drones that do not feature autonomy systems.

• The system operates without communication during the final 500–1,000 meters of flight, making the drone resistant to radio-horizon limitations and EW systems.

• Combat use demonstrates a hit rate of around 80%, dramatically increasing the effectiveness of FPV drones.

A large engineering team worked for nearly a year to bring the system to maturity, refining it for large-scale production and mass deployment, making it suitable for batches numbering in the hundreds of thousands and, in the future, millions of units.

Autonomy for Defensive Purposes: Anti-Shahed Solutions

In 2025, Ukraine acutely felt the need to counter hundreds of Shahed drones, as the Russians began routinely launching mass attacks against cities. The logical response became the development of interceptor drones.

The effectiveness of any air-defence solution depends on several factors: 24/7 availability, all-weather capability, all-aspect engagement, and multi-channel capacity. A scenario in which a single operator controls a single interceptor drone, has only one interception attempt, and can engage a Shahed only from behind is inherently low in effectiveness, writes Defence Express.

This is where terminal-guidance systems come into play. Installing an autonomous guidance module on an interceptor drone can increase the probability of a successful intercept and significantly lower the training threshold for operators. Only after that does it make sense to seriously discuss fully autonomous interceptor drones.

Yaroslav Azhnyuk told Defence Express that computer vision tasks—detection and tracking—are not the most difficult parts of developing this technology. The real challenge lies in control: the higher the speeds involved, the harder this problem becomes. It becomes even more complex at higher altitudes, where air density drops, winds intensify, and the interceptor must contend with turbulent airflow generated by a Shahed.

Unlike engaging a ground target, the interceptor attacks an object moving in three dimensions. This is why autonomous guidance for interceptor drones is far more complex than it may appear at first glance—and why progress in this area is incremental rather than immediate.

In 2025, the company launched the TFL Anti-Shahed Detection Module designed to counter enemy aerial targets such as Shahed-type drones.

The TFL Anti-Shahed module is installed between a thermal imaging camera—most commonly the Kurbas‑640a produced by Odd Systems—and either the flight controller or the video transmitter. The module uses AI algorithms to automatically detect and track targets in the thermal feed, analyzing their heat signature, speed, and flight trajectory.

Once a target is acquired, the system places a green contour around the drone and maintains stable real-time tracking. Importantly, the module operates in parallel with manual flight control and does not interfere with the pilot’s actions: the operator independently decides when and from which direction to attempt the intercept. Developers say they are already working to expand the system’s capabilities, including adding autonomous guidance and automated attack decision-making.

The module is designed to operate at altitudes of up to 5,000 meters, with Shahed-type drones detected at ranges from 50 to 1,000 meters, depending on weather conditions. Claimed recognition accuracy is around 80%. A complete kit with the thermal camera costs approximately $800, while the standalone module is priced at around $300, making it one of the most affordable solutions in its class.

Responsible AI

Autonomous weapons raise ethical concerns about allowing machines to make decisions to destroy a target. Critics of this technology worry that fully autonomous weapons lack human judgment and accountability, potentially violating international humanitarian law.

At present, establishing effective international frameworks to govern the responsible use of AI remains a work in progress.

In 2024, Ukraine participated in the Second Global AI Summit, held in Seoul, South Korea. The Summit participants, including Ukraine, agreed on a Ministerial Statement that focused on three goals: AI security, innovation, and inclusiveness.

At the same time, some military experts in Ukraine express caution about these frameworks, arguing that they could limit AI development in Ukraine and put the country at a disadvantage on the battlefield, especially when the enemy, unconstrained by such frameworks, continues to advance.

When responding to my question about whether Ukraine’s participation in international agreements could limit AI development, The Fourth Law strongly disagreed.

“It provides a framework for discipline and trust, not a restriction. While it raises standards for testing and oversight, it also improves cooperation with partners and supports scalable, reliable deployment. In practice, it is a competitive advantage, not a constraint,” the company said in written correspondence.

Yaroslav Azhyuk also expressed his worry about AI in one of the interviews: “Artificial intelligence will have a direct impact on two critical areas of military technology. The first is fully autonomous drones; the second is the use of AI in information warfare. This technology is comparable to nuclear energy: it can be used for creation and progress, or for destruction—depending entirely on how it is applied”.

Vision for Future

“In 2025, the main shift was from experimentation to battle-proven, scalable autonomy. In 2026, the focus will be on scaling autonomy, operating under EW-contested conditions, and wider deployment in standard combat scenarios", commented The Fourth Law in a correspondence with Ukraine’s Arms Monitor.

In the longer term, the company aims to move toward full-spectrum autonomy—from autonomous takeoff and GPS-denied navigation to automated target detection and engagement. According to the team, this would enable the creation of drone swarms, fully autonomous interceptor drones, and other systems.

When speaking about swarms, TFL noted that at this stage, the term “swarm” is often overstated and overused. In many cases, it refers to basic coordination or visual identification, not true collective autonomy. Real AI swarming requires resilient communications and EW resistance, which remains difficult in combat. Many public claims should therefore be treated cautiously.

Human drone pilots will remain highly relevant. “In the next 2–3 years, AI will not replace operators but will significantly reduce their workload. Over a 5–10 year horizon, autonomy may independently perform certain standardized missions,” according to the TFL representative. The highest return comes from human-machine teaming: investing in scalable autonomy while training operators to use it effectively.

In the future, the company plans to extend its autonomy solutions beyond quadcopters to include fixed-wing drones, missiles, and ground and maritime platforms.

In the civilian sector, TFL sees clear potential applications for autonomous technology in logistics, construction, and agriculture.

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Check the list of my earlier articles on Autonomy and AI.

If the radio fails, the person may never come back — which is why military communications is among the top three areas receiving the largest investment in Ukraine. HIMERA is the country’s only mass producer of tactical radios, which are extremely hard to intercept. HIMERA’s handheld radios are used in Ukraine and are now available in the United States and Canada.

The start-up ranks among the top ten by investment attracted in Ukraine and recently received a Google grant to scale its business. I spoke with HIMERA co-founder Misha Rudominsky and Michael Redding from Canadian Quantropi Inc., about what Ukraine can teach the world about military communications.

Remember: my publications are not sponsored. This digest is supported only by private individuals — readers and subscribers like you.

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HIMERA positions itself as Ukraine’s only mass-producer of tactical radios, offering an innovative adaptive communication system for both civilian and specialized users in complex environments. The idea for HIMERA was born in 2022, amid Russia’s advance on Kyiv, when its founders saw firsthand that existing communication systems were failing on the battlefield.

There were several radios used on the frontline in Ukraine, including Motorola and Harris. Civilian walkie-talkies, such as the widely used Motorola models, were never designed for battlefield conditions. Professional military radios like L3Harris remained rare and expensive, reaching Ukraine mostly as partner aid.

With backgrounds in hardware startups and consumer electronics, Rudominsky and his team decided to build communication devices that would be affordable, scalable, and resilient. Their main priority was clear: the radios had to withstand EW.

The HIMERA ecosystem currently includes four core products designed to create a resilient, secure communications network:

• G1 PRO – a portable radio offering over 48 hours of autonomous operation;

• B1 – an autonomous repeater ready for immediate deployment. In May 2025, in partnership with Aerobavovna, a Ukrainian military balloon producer, the B1 repeater was tested at altitudes of 500–800 meters, dramatically expanding its coverage;

• E1 – an internet extender optimized for high throughput in challenging terrain;

• R1 – a repeater with internet-relaying capabilities, enabling a fully wireless network configuration.

Each product incorporates advanced protection features to minimize the risk of detection, interception, and jamming. This includes AES-256 encryption, mesh/MANET network architecture, and pseudo-random frequency hopping, ensuring secure and uninterrupted communication across the battlefield.

The company’s communication systems are used by over 7,000 personnel within Ukraine’s Defence Forces.

HIMERA’s strategy rests on four pillars: relevant functionality, scalability, affordability, and user experience.

1. Relevant functionality: “We are working in some of the harshest environments: we are hard to detect, hard ot jam, hard ot intercept,” commented the co-founder of HIMERA, Misha Rudominsky, to Militarnyi.

2. Scalability: HIMERA uses only commercial components, so it can manufacture faster, build supply chains quickly, and deliver larger numbers to meet urgent battlefield needs.

3. Affordability: HIMERA’s goal is to make advanced communications affordable. Many competitor systems are priced for special forces or marines with big budgets, while regular ground troops can’t afford them. We’re bringing this level of functionality to those who need it most.

4. User experience: “In military communications, many products are overly complex — it can take months to learn how to use them. We focus on simplicity and speed; if a user already knows the basics of radio communication, they can learn everything about our product in a single day.”

Flagship Product: G1 PRO

HIMERA’s flagship product is G1 PRO — a handheld radio that lets soldiers talk to each other and has an operating temperature range from minus 20c to 50c and a range of 3 km.

Back in 2023, the well-known Ukrainian radio and drone expert Serhiy “FLASH” Beskrestnov, whom I regularly quote in my digest, commented on HIMERA radios: “The device is a niche, low-power radio built for reconnaissance teams, SOF units, UAV crews, and intra-platoon communications — but it has all the attributes of a true military radio. Priority goes to units on the front lines where active combat is taking place. The reason this radio deserves attention is simple: very few Ukrainian teams have managed to design, build, and scale a military electronic device into small-series production. These successes should not go unnoticed”.

We can only imagine how much the product has improved since 2023. As of July 2025, Himera’s products have had more than 80 updates.

Already in April 2025, FLASH reported: “I had a chance to test Himera’s new radios for range. In the open field, everything works smoothly at nearly 3 kilometers. Inside a vehicle, about 1.5 kilometers. But the MESH system helps a lot”.

Misha Rudominsky told Ukraine’s Arms Monitor that the Ukrainian defense sector still relies on a mix of imported systems alongside locally developed solutions like HIMERA. These domestic innovations are becoming increasingly widespread due to their adaptability to current battlefield realities.

The main advantages of G1 PRO include:

• Battery life: Best-in-class — ~48 hours continuous use (typical competitors: 8–12 hours).

• Weight & durability: Ultra-light (~300 g) vs typical 1–1.5 kg radios; water- and gas-resistant; survived extreme mechanical and blast tests (including drops and severe shock).

• RF protection: Frequency-hopping waveform that spreads across ranges — difficult to detect, jam, or intercept; fully encrypted.

• Post-quantum security: Integrated post-quantum encryption in partnership with a Canadian partner, Quantropi.

• Networking & data: Mesh networking and efficient voice/data transmission for situational-awareness systems.

• Functions as a small field computer enabling fast, reliable voice and data exchange on the battlefield.

• Designed for rapid production and supply-chain scale-up using commercial components.

In 2025, the G1 PRO was integrated with Ukraine’s Kropyva situational awareness system, using a built-in Teneta TNT modem developed by Teneta Labs.

HIMERA is ready to produce 100,000 radios per year. For now, production runs at roughly 1,000 devices per month — but both in Ukraine and abroad, demand continues to grow.

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International Partnerships

As mentioned, HIMERA’s products have already reached international markets in the US and Canada.

In spring 2024, Himera signed an exclusive agreement with the American company Reticulate Micro, which specializes in secure communications. The companies signed an exclusive distribution agreement, according to which Reticulate will supply HIMERA’s battle-tested tactical communications systems in the United States and to key government customers worldwide.

As Joshua Cryer, President and CEO of Reticulate Micro, noted, HIMERA radios “fill the gap between cheap, low-quality comms and radios with premium features — and premium prices.”
“We do not seek to compete with large MESH tactical radio programmes; in fact, we see HIMERA technology as a complement to many of the radios currently fielded by US and coalition forces,” he added.

In December 2024, HIMERA announced the delivery of its communication systems to the U.S. Air Force. The company revealed that in the fall of 2024, it successfully sold its tactical radios outside Ukraine for the first time, specifically to the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).

Since February 2025, the team has had an official partner in Canada — Quantropi Inc. Quantropi is a firm that specializes in quantum-secure data encryption technologies.

According to Misha Rudominsky, this partnership enables HIMERA to integrate advanced post-quantum encryption into its products. Quantropi became the exclusive distributor of HIMERA products in the United States and Canada, and also gained the right to promote these technologies across NATO and allied countries.

James Nguyen, Co-Founder and CEO of Quantropi, explained that this partnership with HIMERA allows Quantropi to combine its cutting-edge cryptographic technologies with one of the most battle-proven tactical radios on the market.

Michael Redding, CTO at Quantropi, told Ukraine’s Arms Monitor that while many theoretical solutions to military challenges exist, Ukrainians hold an advantage because they have already tested theirs on the battlefield. “I know of a start-up somewhere in the West that says they’ll have a tactical radio ready in two years. But I’m holding a HIMERA radio right now. It’s minimalist — no unnecessary parts, no features no one needs — and incredibly user-friendly. For instance, you can tell it was designed for people who wear gloves, because the conditions it’s made for are cold, wet, and demanding. Our police officers, security personnel, and border guards can already use these radios. Everything about it feels thoughtful and well-iterated, shaped by real feedback from those who rely on it.”

Michael said these radios are already available in Canada through Quantropi and could be useful for ambulance, police, and fire services.

Trends in Military Communications

Since 2022, military communications in Ukraine have undergone a significant transformation — both in terms of the number of users and the ways communication systems are applied in the field.

“We see much higher expectations for functionality today: users need not only reliability but also flexibility, integration with digital tools, and simplified configuration,” says Misha.

At the same time, operating conditions have become more complex - communication often needs to be maintained across challenging terrains, with command posts located farther from the front line and under constant threat from electronic warfare (EW). The impact of EW systems has increased dramatically, pushing Ukrainian developers to design solutions that are more adaptive, autonomous, and resistant to interference.

Trends in military communication that are already visible now include the following:

• Spectrum congestion. The radio environment is increasingly crowded with dual-use and military emitters, making spectrum management and robust anti-interference techniques essential.

• Shift to secure communications. Operational security is paramount. Systems must minimize detectability and resist interception and jamming.

• From voice to data-centric systems. Communications must carry not only voice but also situational data, telemetry, maps, and command&control messages — effectively becoming the backbone of battlefield coordination.

In short: the future is uncertain, but the direction is clear —communications will become more secure, data-centric, distributed, and resilient. Building practical, field-proven solutions now is the best way to prepare for whatever comes next.

Misha said that Ukraine’s allies, especially European countries, should start preparing their tactical communication systems right now.

It’s important to choose solutions already adapted to the conditions of modern warfare — resistant to EW and capable of dynamic frequency changes.

Communication systems should not exist in isolation but be integrated into situational awareness and battle management tools from the outset. They should be scalable and affordable enough to equip the entire army, not just individual units.

And finally, soldiers at every level should be trained in coordination and communication — everyone must understand how to stay connected and work as one system.

With Michael Redding from Quantropi, we talked about Ukraine’s sense of urgency — and the difficulty of replicating it in other countries during peacetime. We agreed that no one can be certain that peaceful nations, their societies, or their armed forces won’t face security threats in the coming years. One clear lesson from the current conflict is that adversaries are practising and iterating far faster than expected. Critics once blamed Russia’s rigid, hierarchical command for slow decision-making, but that has changed.

“Russia has been taking notes. Are we taking notes? How quickly can we retrofit an EW package onto our drones? Do we even have enough drones — tens, hundreds — to meet a sustained threat? If an adversary fields a cloud of drones over Canadian territory, what capabilities do we have to detect, disrupt, and defeat it?” Michael added.

I’ll leave it there, hoping that those questions will spark reflection and motivate responsible decisions as soon as possible.

Read my previous reports:

• Military Communications and Drones;

• Canada’s Drone Blind Spot, and What It Can Learn from Ukraine, and the expanded version of this article in the Canadian Defence Review;

• Daily Dynamics of Drone Warfare: Summary of an Interview with Serhiy FLASH.

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“Every half an hour, TAF Industries upgrades one Kolibri FPV drone to keep it relevant on the battlefield.” That’s what I read just before my interview with TAF Industries founder and CEO Oleksandr Yakovenko.

How is that possible, I wondered, given claims that FPV drones have already reached the peak of their development? I began our conversation with this question, and we went on to discuss many important topics — from fiber-optic drones to the crucial role of pilot skills.

TAF Industries is one of the largest producers of FPV drones in Ukraine, with a monthly output of around 80,000 systems. Their analysis of the current state of drone warfare in Ukraine is something everybody should read.

Just a reminder: my publications are not sponsored. This digest is supported only by private individuals — readers and subscribers like you.

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In 2025, TAF Drones rebranded as TAF Industries — a group that now unites five companies across different defence-tech sectors.

Currently, TAF includes: a company responsible for importing components; a producer of electronic warfare (EW) and electronic intelligence (ELINT) systems; a manufacturer of reconnaissance drones; a company specializing in the production of FPV drones; and a software developer, focusing on targeting systems, communication technologies, and related solutions.
Founded at the end of 2023, the company grew from a team of 20 to a staff of about 1,000 and an annual turnover approaching $500 million.

Currently, TAF Industries produces up to 80,000 drones per month and already has agreements to set up two joint production lines in foreign countries. Under one of these deals, the partner will effectively invest $10 million into TAF Industries.

Before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, TAF Industries founder Oleksandr Yakovenko worked in logistics, fuel import, and grain export. Starting from February 2022, his logistics vehicles were used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine to transport heavy equipment and ammunition.

While assisting the Ukrainian military over the course of the year, Oleksandr opened an experimental joint drone production with the National Guard of Ukraine, which launched in August 2023. Unfortunately, a sabotage operation at the military facility destroyed that production line and its warehouse stock, forcing the team to start from scratch.

In December 2023, TAF Industries launched a new production line with an initial capacity of roughly 2,000 units per month.

Today, TAF produces up to 80,000 Kolibri FPV drones per month, as well as other products, depending on order volume and costs. “We could easily produce 150,000 drones, but the state’s procurement resources are limited,” the company says.

According to Oleksandr’s calculations, Ukraine currently needs 6-8 mln FPV drones annually.

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Kolibri FPV Drones

Kolibri (Hummingbird) FPV drone is TAF Industries’ flagship product.
The first and most popular model is the Kolibri 7: praised for its compactness, quick setup, and manoeuvrability, with an operational ceiling of up to 3 km. It can carry a warhead of 1.5 kg for up to 15 minutes; at cruising speeds of 60–80 km/h, its tactical radius is about 12 km.

The Kolibri 8 differs in size and range from its predecessor, performing missions out to 14 km. Also, it supports FPV operation with optional AI-assisted targeting guidance (Last Mile), remote delayed-start (PowerKey), and a choice of analog, digital, or thermal video solutions.

The Kolibri 10 — rugged strike drone has a 12,600 mAh battery, 2.4 kg warhead capacity, and a thermal variant for night ops. It operates on MilELRS firmware, ensuring stable performance under intense EW conditions. Support for non-standard video frequencies allows the drone to adapt to specific mission requirements.

Maintaining communications in complex terrain and under active electronic warfare remains one of the key challenges on the battlefield, so TAF Industries has started production of the Kolibri 13 FR1 repeater. The new platform was unveiled in autumn 2025. The company says its solution is half the cost of a comparable DJI Matrice-based system, comes ready to use out of the box, and requires only one day of operator training. In effect, it is a relay platform that preserves communications on the battlefield where difficult terrain and numerous interference sources degrade links — a capability that is critical for situational awareness and for employing other unmanned systems. Advantages of the Kolibri 13 FR1 include daytime and nighttime operation and optical stabilization that removes the need for GPS.

Due to the constant battlefield changes, drones quickly lose effectiveness — which is why TAF Industries has been upgrading Kolibri FPV drones for three months now, having already processed almost 5,000 units. TAF receives upgrade requests directly from the brigades and carries out the modernization at its own expense.

In response to my question, if it’s still possible to further improve FPV drones, Oleksandr replied that FPV drones are constantly being upgraded. “Although at first glance an FPV drone seems like a simple and inexpensive platform, frontline experience shows that even small technical adjustments can significantly change how it is used,” he added.

Key points important in this process:

• Practical feedback from the front line. Soldiers and operators provide real-time feedback, which drives the evolution of both designs and tactics of use.

• Low production cost is a major advantage. “Even an additional $7–9 circuit board can significantly expand the functionality without moving the platform out of the “cheap and scalable” category,” Oleksandr says.

• Tactical innovations in use. An FPV drone launched in close proximity to the enemy can save battery power (in certain modes, it consumes no energy until detection), and the operator activates it at the right moment — this changes how it is deployed.

• Autonomy and modularity. Developers are creating “guidance” modules and other auxiliary blocks: step by step, drones are becoming more autonomous and expanding the range of tasks they can perform independently.

• Continuous incremental improvements. There is no need for a “revolution” — numerous small upgrades (more reliable motors, better control boards, stronger communication links, improved targeting modules, and weather protection) collectively enhance performance.

• Reliability in harsh conditions. The next iterations will factor in performance in rain and humid environments, ensuring full waterproofing.

“FPV platforms still hold enormous potential for improvement — not through one major breakthrough, but through continuous, field-driven refinements of hardware, software, and tactics, guided by direct feedback from users on the battlefield,” commented Oleksandr.

It’s now well documented that cheap FPV drones are destroying traditional systems, like tanks and armoured vehicles, as well as expensive enemy drones. In July 2025, a Kolibri FPV drone costing around $400 took down a Russian Lancet reconnaissance drone worth approximately $30,000–35,000.

Recently, in October 2025, a $500 worth Kolibri FPV drone fitted with a thermal camera struck a Russian BM-21 multirocket launcher. Each BM-21 Grad unit costs roughly $2.5 million to produce, with each shot fired by the BM-21 costing approximately $3,000.

Fiber-Optic Drones

In September 2025, TAF Industries reported the codification of Kolibri 13 O fiber-optic variant. The fiber-optic Kolibri’s strengths are full protection against EW and interception thanks to the fiber cable, an integrated media converter for quick setup, and the stability and precision required for planning strikes.

Their technical characteristics:

• Payload — up to 3 kg

• Tactical range — 14 km

• Cruise speed — 60–80 km/h

• Flight altitude — up to 200 m

• Fiber-optic cable length — 17 km

• Endurance — 17 minutes

• Day/night camera

• Battery — from 16,000 mAh

The founder of TAF Industries is convinced that fiber-optic drones will certainly remain with us — they are a versatile tool for short- and medium-range combat.

In an interview with Ukraine’s Arms Monitor, Oleksandr outlined many of their key characteristics, which can be summarized as follows:

• Their main advantage is that they cannot simply be “jammed” with radio interference because the link is a physical cable. That changes the counter-measure balance.

• Fiber-optic drones are expected to be used for long-duration surveillance, transmission of high-quality video and target designation, fire-adjustment, and maintaining communications in hazardous areas.

• Fiber-optic drones are particularly useful in close-range frontline sectors where a platform needs to remain airborne for extended periods or deliver a stable video/data feed.

• A 40 km range still sounds fantastical for most fiber-optic drones, but even much shorter ranges already provide a tactical advantage.

• There are constraints: the cable limits maneuverability and can be vulnerable to physical obstacles or weather; in some front sectors, deploying tethered systems is complicated.

• As demand grows, they will become more reliable (cable protection, waterproofing, modularity) and will be integrated into combined systems (for example, as part of a “mothership” complex with different types of drones).

• Designing an effective countermeasure is not easy: physically cutting/damaging the cable is possible, but deploying countermeasures at scale (for example, barbed wire along the entire front) is often unrealistic or technically difficult in many sectors.

• The coming years will show where tethered drones are most useful: they will not replace all other platforms, but will secure a permanent role in the arsenal because of their unique capabilities.

In the summer of 2025, Russians started using fiber-optic FPV drones as land mines. The drone ‘waits’ on the ground for enemy infantry or vehicles and detonates on any contact.

To avoid incidents in which vehicles or personnel are blown up, Ukraine’s Defence Forces fighters first fly reconnaissance along the planned route and check the road, destroying ground traps.

Recently, Ukraine has developed an interesting application of fiber-optic drone — using a naval drone (USV) as a “mothership” drone capable of carrying several unjammable FPVs in retractable compartments built into its hull. This innovation was employed during attacks on the Tuapse and Novorossiysk ports in Russia, marking the first time fiber-optic drones were launched from the sea.

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Babka Recon Drone and Other Innovations

In June 2025, TAF Industries introduced Babka, an affordable fixed-wing reconnaissance UAS intended for tactical-depth operations and for use as an aerial reconnaissance and artillery-fire correction platform capable of functioning in active electronic-warfare conditions.

Development was driven by a requirement for a reconnaissance asset whose loss would not impose significant operational or command consequences. High-end reconnaissance drones typically demand favourable conditions — limited enemy air defences and good weather — and their loss carries substantial responsibility for units.

Babka, by contrast, is assembled from low-cost components to minimise risk while preserving effective tactical capability; the manufacturer reports an endurance of up to two hours and an operational range of about 40 km.

The complex includes four UAVs, a ground station, a laptop with all the software needed, and a control tablet.

Overall, TAF Industries has developed over 30 defence tech products. The company creates not only drones, but also electronic warfare systems, initiation boards, and AI solutions for targeting.

TAF Industries was one of the first to codify “last-mile” modules for the automatic terminal guidance of drones.

“A team of four experienced specialists and two juniors produced the product in nine months — from start to codification. This is the fastest result among everyone who has already codified their devices. Given the limited budget, I consider this case successful, even though the product can still be improved,” said the company’s founder.

He added that, after the start of mass production, TAF Industries has already shipped the first 10,000 such modules and is preparing to deliver another 10,000.

“We are now working on new solutions: target identification and search systems, as well as ‘air-to-air’ technologies for detecting and destroying enemy drones. We’re talking about so-called ‘Shahed hunters,’” Oleksandr Yakovenko teased about the new products.

FPV as a Basic Battlefield Tool

“When enlisting, every soldier usually receives an assault rifle or other small arms — yet fewer than 3% actually use them on the battlefield. The FPV drone is rapidly becoming one of the basic battlefield tools, on a par with the rifle,” said Oleksandr in an interview with Ukraine’s Arms Monitor.

While the percentage does not reflect official statistics but rather approximate estimates, this growing trend of replacing firearms with drones had already become noticeable earlier. “About 90% of frontline fighters will never use small arms in close combat. This war is fought by artillery and drones; the role of assault rifles has become marginal,” said a Ukrainian military expert in 2024.

FPV is a low-cost, fast, and extremely effective asset that armies around the world already need today.

Several countries have already incorporated FPVs into their military doctrines and exercises. In January 2025, the Polish military began to learn how to use FPV drones and undergo appropriate training for their production and operation.

According to the recently released Unleashing American Drone Dominance program, every U.S. Army squad should be equipped with small, one-way attack drones — such as FPVs — by the end of fiscal 2026.

In October 2025, the Norwegian Armed Forces tested locally assembled FPV drones, which will become “an important part of the country’s defense in the coming years.”

“Each state will decide the level of FPV deployment and technological sophistication — some will prioritise maximum autonomy and control range, others mass production and low cost. For the United States, high-tech solutions with long autonomy are more relevant; for many African countries and other regions, simple and affordable FPV systems that deliver quick tactical effects without large investments are the better fit,” said the founder of TAF Industries.

The question that partners ask most often is how these drones are employed. “Our foreign partners often can’t understand why Ukrainian drones’ ranges have “jumped” from 7–10 km to 20 km and more — it’s not just about new components, it’s primarily about practice, mistakes, and tactics honed in combat. Truly deep technological breakthroughs can be counted on one hand, but partners want to know above all how to use these systems effectively. Poland is a good example: the real threats forced them to reconsider their approaches and start preparing seriously — and we all need to do that faster,” Oleksandr believes.

Yakovenko continued that, currently, the problem isn’t the equipment itself, but that states must create doctrines, procedures, and response systems: FPV drones will become a mass tool not only for armies but also for terrorists and criminals, so we need to prepare today.

Importance of Skilled Drone Pilots

According to Oleksandr, the leading Ukrainian manufacturers produce drones of broadly comparable quality. So, at least 80% of FPV employment success depends on the pilot’s proficiency.

Operator skill determines system effectiveness: a technically excellent platform will underperform without a qualified pilot.

Currently, Ukraine has at least 33 certified drone training schools, but the quality of their training varies, and the number of successful graduates is still not enough for the needs of the battlefield.

Yakovenko warns that after active hostilities end, a pool of combat-experienced specialists will emerge who may be sought by international partners, illicit actors, or foreign firms.

Accordingly, Ukrainian policymakers should consider regulatory reforms to permit the development of private military companies and to incentivize mil-tech firms to operate internationally, preserving competencies and investment within the domestic ecosystem.

It’s refreshing to see such a clear understanding of the threats and challenges posed by the growing use of unmanned systems among Ukraine’s industry representatives. Several times during our conversation, Oleksandr emphasized how crucial it is to regulate the use of drones and to develop strategies for channeling the skills and knowledge of thousands of drone operators once the war ends.

For me, as someone with a background in arms control, it was especially important to hear that perspective. My concern, however, is that this understanding seems to exist only on one side of the war.

Read my previous reports on the defence tech in Ukraine:

• STING Interceptor Drone by Wild Hornets: When Civil Society Powers Defence;

• Ukraine’s Pursuit of Drone Autonomy: NORDA Dynamics;

• GOR: Top-Rated Reconnaissance Drone by Airlogix;

• Quantum Systems and Recce-Strike in Ukraine’s Drone Warfare.

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One of the best-known Ukrainian interceptor drones is the STING. In just five months of operations, it reportedly intercepted more than 600 enemy UAVs. In early October, Ukrainian specialists joined Danish forces for counter-drone exercises and launched a STING interceptor that successfully destroyed its target. Even Russians were so impressed by it that they began trying to replicate STING, according to reports from early October.

STING is produced by a Ukrainian volunteer organisation that has since become a miltech company: the Wild Hornets, with whom I recently spoke. Alex Roslin, a Ukrainian-Canadian author and journalist, serves as the Wild Hornets’ foreign support coordinator. In our conversation, he emphasised the role of Ukrainian civil society in supplying the Armed Forces with urgently needed weapons systems — a theme I maintain throughout this article.

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The Russian-Ukrainian war cannot be viewed merely as a contest between two militaries. Ukrainian society has been intensely mobilised because this war poses an existential threat to the whole nation. In the first days of the invasion, long lines of volunteers formed outside enlistment offices; it is said the army was reinforced by around 700,000 recruits drawn from civilian life.

The same goes for drone production. Ukraine now has more than 500 drone manufacturers. Some transitioned from civilian drone businesses; others organised garage-level production. The Wild Hornets are a prominent example: their story began with volunteers and DIY prototypes, and now the company is one of Ukraine’s most successful UAV producers.

Wild Hornets’ impact has been significant. Their products are credited with causing approximately $2 billion in damage to Russian military assets. As of early October, Ukrainian forces equipped with the Wild Hornets drones had reportedly destroyed 153 tanks, 231 armoured vehicles, 124 artillery systems/MLRS, 669 vehicles and ammunition depots, more than 600 Shahed and Gerbera loitering munitions, and 1,268 reconnaissance and strike drones. They have also struck over 1,000 Russian soldiers and positions and destroyed four air-defence systems.

The first media reports about Wild Hornets appeared in May 2023, when volunteers began crowdfunding parts and components. Early prototypes were literally built in garages: enthusiasts ordered parts online and assembled the first aircraft themselves. The idea of using fast FPV drones with strapped munitions to strike armoured vehicles quickly took hold. Systems that cost roughly $400–$500 each were soon used to attack tanks.

“I didn’t have any direct experience with drone manufacturing before”, explained Ivan, a member of the Wild Hornets, to Euronews. “In the spring of 2023, I worked as a journalist. I had a small blog about business, and at some point, one of my readers asked me to start a drone fundraiser”, he continued. The reader who contacted Ivan turned out to be Dmytro, the co-founder of Wild Hornets. “Looking back, that was the beginning of the FPV drone era”, Ivan said.

By October 2024, the Wild Hornets reportedly employed around 25 engineers and could produce up to 100 drones per day; after that, they stopped disclosing production figures.

Wild Hornets build several drone types for different roles, usually distinguished by frame size. Their 10-inch models carry about 3 kg (6.6 lb) and can reach ~20 km (12 mi), although according to developers, 70–80% of strikes occur within 10 km (6 mi).

While FPVs are mostly used as one-way kamikaze weapons, Wild Hornets have pioneered using FPVs as reusable bombers that drop a payload and return. These bombers typically survive 10–30 sorties before loss, making them more cost-effective than expendable kamikazes. However, because they must fly out and return, their maximum range is reduced, and training a bomber pilot requires about one extra week.

In July 2024, Wild Hornets revealed their new system, which is being called the largest Ukrainian FPV drone. It’s been named the “Queen of Hornets” and was developed at the request of K-2 Brigade commander Kyrylo Veres to create a relatively cheap and accessible FPV bomber.

This is a multipurpose drone, reports Defence Express. Its payload capacity is reported at 9.5 kg, so it can perform not only bomber tasks but also act as a logistics drone. In addition, it can be used for remote mining, not to mention that it can carry a very powerful warhead as a traditional kamikaze drone.

Also, Queen of Hornets can perform another interesting role — as a drone carrier or mothership drone – it carries other FPV drones, thus increasing their operational range. Another critically important task this drone can perform is acting as a relay. With the appropriate equipment, as noted, it can achieve a communications range of 25 km. The drone itself is built on a 17-inch frame and is composed of 65% Ukrainian components.

In May 2025, for the first time, Ukraine’s Armed Forces used the Queen of Hornets drone equipped with a grenade launcher in combat.

Reportedly, in 2025, one Queen of Hornets flew 185 missions, which is an impressive development considering that its usual service life was 10-15 operations last fall.

In October 2024, The Telegraph reported that Ukraine developed an interceptor called STING to counter Russian-Iranian “Shahed” drones. STING has a conventional quadcopter design with a large dome rising from its centre that houses a warhead and a camera. Its maximum altitude is not disclosed. The drone is piloted from the ground using VR goggles or a ground control station, which gives the operator a precise view of where it is flying.

The FT wrote that an AIM-9X interceptor missile for the NASAMS air defense system costs over $1 million, while Roslin said a disposable STING interceptor drone costs only $2,100. They shoot down the much more expensive Russian Shahed, which costs, according to various estimates, $50,000 to $60,000 per drone.

Ukraine aims to deploy at least 1,000 interceptor drones per day to repel Russian attacks.

“Our STING interceptor’s effectiveness is 60–90%, depending on the crew’s experience and the radar setup. There have been occasions when the pilot of a single crew shot down more in one night than the army aviation,” wrote Wild Hornets on their Telegram channel.

Engineers spent weeks at frontline positions testing prototypes and aligning designs with combat needs. What might take years of procurement and testing elsewhere happens in months in Ukraine, driven by volunteer-inspired energy and the urgency of war. In August 2025, the company released footage showing STING flying at speeds up to 315 km/h; when the drone first surfaced in autumn 2024, its baseline speed was reported at just over 160 km/h.

“STING far outpaces the Shahed (Gerbera) in speed. From the moment a target is detected to its destruction takes about ten to fifteen seconds. Meanwhile, we’re not standing still — we’re preparing new, even faster versions to fight jet-powered drones,” Wild Hornets say.

For the context, the cruising speed of Shahed-type drones is 200-250 km/h.

It is important to emphasize that STING drones are almost completely funded by donations.

Ukraine is currently seeking funding from foreign partners to ensure the production of interceptor drones in the required volumes.

At the same time, there is a lot that Ukraine can teach its European partners who are dealing with Russian drones. At the summit of European leaders in October, President Zelensky renewed Ukraine’s offer to assist NATO allies in detecting and downing unidentified aerial objects. Ukraine, he emphasized, has “perhaps the world’s greatest experience” with drone warfare due to Russia’s invasion. The STING interceptor exemplifies Ukraine’s defence innovation.

When I asked whether Wild Hornets is seeking investments, Alex Roslin replied: “We are a charitable foundation and do not accept investments. Our goal is to produce drones for the Ukrainian military.” He added that in all partnerships and licensing agreements, the primary condition is that cooperation must address the needs of Ukraine’s military. “We require resources and steady funding; if you want to help, please donate to the foundation and ask what is most urgently needed,” Roslin said.

In this context, I would like to recall the report Ukraine’s Drone Ecosystem and the Defence of Europe, recently published by LSE. The report emphasized the significance of human capital in modern drone warfare. Ukraine’s drone ecosystem includes the military, volunteers, NGOs, and drone schools, whose combined efforts bring tangible results.

In Ukraine, FPV drones can be produced for around $500, and fixed-wing reconnaissance drones for $1,500–3,000. Yet these figures do not account for the cost of labour. Many Ukrainian drone makers work individually, often from their basements or garages, and typically do so on an unpaid basis. Such “basement-level” pricing is hardly replicable in a Western context, according to the report (read my summary here).

About 60% of donations for Wild Hornets drones come from abroad, with the remainder from within Ukraine. The scale of generosity is striking; for example, a community led by Ukrainian volunteer Serhiy Sternenko raised $2 million for interceptors in just two days. A large share of the systems operating at the front line exists today thanks, at least in part, to donations from ordinary people.

If you’d like to support the Wild Hornets, please find their donation options on their Linktree page and website. Visit their site to see media mentions, FAQs, praise from troops, and social media pages to follow for daily updates.

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On a personal note, I’ve recently launched a campaign to raise $3,400 for fiber-optic equipment for the military unit of my university friend Vasyl, who is currently serving in Ukraine’s Armed Forces. We’ve already raised 60% of the target amount, and I’d be deeply grateful for your donation!

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Both Ukraine and Russia face major challenges in drone operations, including shortages of skilled personnel, the growing volume of battlefield data, and the expansion of electronic warfare. These pressures have pushed both sides to focus on the development and application of autonomous systems, which is currently one of the largest investment areas in Ukraine’s defence tech.

Recently, the Ukrainian company NORDA Dynamics, which specialises in creating autonomous UAV control systems capable of operating without GPS, traditional communication channels, and under conditions of active electronic warfare, closed a $1 million funding round with the Swedish Varangians as lead investor. I spoke with representatives from NORDA Dynamics, Varangians, and MITS Capital to gather their views on the state of autonomous warfare in Ukraine and the key investment priorities for the next six months.

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Oleksandr Yakovenko, CEO of TAF Industries, one of the largest producers of FPV drones in Ukraine, said in his interview with Ukr.Radio, that many Western unmanned systems deployed elsewhere — in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany — show impressive results in presentations and controlled test ranges. But when it comes to real combat use, that equipment often fails to operate under heavy electronic-warfare pressure.

In Ukraine, GPS is compromised and cannot be relied upon: “We are effectively living in a GPS-denied environment. That may be new for the world, but it is reality for Ukraine”.

To operate in a GPS-denied environment and under active EW, a drone must have a suite of autonomous capabilities: the ability to hold course and altitude without GPS, stabilization under electronic-warfare conditions, and the ability to correct its trajectory using visual or inertial cues. These are sensors that combine accelerometers and gyroscopes. They help determine a UAV’s position, velocity, and orientation in space, especially when GPS is unavailable, says Nazar Bigun, co-founder and CEO of NORDA Dynamics. He emphasises that these are the kinds of solutions his company prioritises, ensuring operators can be confident a mission will be completed even without communications or navigation.

For Ukraine, this is a critical problem. Without alternative solutions, drones would quickly lose their effectiveness.

“This problem is equally critical for our Western partners who, in the face of Russia’s use of EW and jamming, appear even more vulnerable and need Ukrainian experience to counter the common enemy. Unfortunately, much of our allies’ weaponry still relies on GPS for positioning,” says Bihun.

Nazar added that their products can be better described as autonomous control systems rather than conventional artificial intelligence. ND builds solutions that allow drones to complete missions without GPS, traditional communications channels, or operator involvement. Systems may incorporate individual AI components, for example, a model for recognising and classifying military equipment.

Underdog and StableLink

NORDA Dynamics is a Ukrainian deeptech company founded by volunteers with more than 10 years of experience in helping Ukraine’s military. The company works closely with the frontline every day – with operators, engineers, and UAV units – to adapt solutions to the realities of modern warfare as quickly as possible.

The start-up’s flagship product is a last-mile targeting system called Underdog. It enables drones to complete missions autonomously after an operator designates a target. The technology relies on computer vision and artificial intelligence to ensure strike accuracy even in heavily contested or jamming conditions.

Since Ukraine fields hundreds of drone types, 400 of them were used on the battlefield in May alone, the modules must be compatible across multiple UAV models.

Answering my question about the compatibility of their Underdog system with specific UAVs, NORDA Dynamics explained that it is a universal autonomy module. It is compatible with most platforms and supports the main flight controllers used by the majority of drones. Thanks to its effectiveness and relatively simple integration, it can be used on both multicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The module is already integrated with dozens of Ukrainian manufacturers and used on the battlefield.

In addition to Underdog, the start-up is also developing StableLink, a stabilization system that maintains a drone’s precise azimuth and altitude even under active EW conditions and with no GPS. It corrects the position of multirotor UAVs, compensates for wind, and supports automatic take-off and landing. It is most effective on relay drones, which enable strike and other types of UAVs to operate at greater ranges.

“The StableLink module is also used on loitering munitions and bomber drones — wherever long-duration, stable flight is required. On the front line, our StableLink has already proved highly successful. Its primary aim was to replace costly DJI Matrice platforms used as relays; we have succeeded in reducing the carrier cost by a factor of 8–10,” added Nazar Bihun.

Both Underdog and Stablelink are hardware-agnostic, compatible with most Betaflight, iNav, Pixhawk-based, and Ardupilot-supported systems. The stack runs efficiently on affordable companion computers such as the Raspberry Pi Zero 2, making it well-suited for Ukrainian-made drones. With optimized compatibility across both advanced platforms and low-cost FPVs, the solutions ensure maximum accessibility for frontline units.

The company trains its AI models using a mix of real-world combat telemetry, sensor recordings, and adversarial datasets gathered through field partnerships. The training data includes flight logs, simulated electronic-warfare attacks, terrain mapping, and operator behavior patterns, further supported by partner organizations with strong expertise in data collection and model training.

NORDA Dynamics regularly attends international conferences to warn partners that Europe is unprepared: it lacks cheap counter-UAV options, specialised UAV units, and the necessary infrastructure.

“I like to use a simple analogy: imagine if, during the Second World War, one side had fought with bows against tanks. Even with limitless resources and population, it would not be enough. I am, of course, exaggerating — but the core point needs urgently planting in the minds of our allies. Otherwise, they will learn it the hard way,” Bihun said.

Autonomous Tech Trends in Ukraine

Since the summer of 2025, we have seen a boom in the development of autonomous technology in Ukraine, although full autonomy remains out of reach. The major updates of recent weeks include (read the article “Autonomous Technologies in Ukraine: New Developments” here):

• Amazing Drones: Developing an automated anti-air drone system that autonomously detects and intercepts aerial targets at speeds up to 300 km/h. Also building pilot-assist targeting software and ground stations to reduce pilot workload amid shortages.

• Swarmer: Ukraine has begun employing swarm-drone technology, developed by the start-up Swarmer, to coordinate autonomous strikes on Russian positions, with some units already conducting more than 100 operations. The software reduces manpower needs from nine to three operators and has been tested with swarms of up to 25 drones, with plans for 100+ (read the full article “Is Ukraine Leading Drone Swarm Warfare?” here).

  Recently, Swarmer raised $15 million, the largest defence-tech investment since the war began. Its software draws on data from 82,000 missions to replicate pilot tactics and make real-time decisions.

• Vyriy Drone & The Fourth Law (TFL): Began mass production of drones equipped with terminal guidance (TFL-1 module), enabling “fire-and-forget” precision strikes. Reported to increase strike effectiveness by 2–4x, with only a 10% rise in costs. The new Vyriy-10-TFL-1 is priced at around $450, competitive with FPV drones. The Forth Law founder Yaroslav Azhniuk expects most frontline drones to be fitted with similar autonomy systems within six to nine months.

• Clarity AI program: Now used by 250+ of Ukraine’s Armed Forces service members for automated image analysis, cutting military imagery processing time by up to 90%. Features include automatic photo/video decoding, geotagging, and orthophotomap generation, with potential integration into Ukraine’s Delta command system. Running on an ordinary laptop, the software scans photos and video feeds, independently flagging targets and sending confirmed data to commanders.

Feedback from the Front Lines

While drone warfare in Ukraine is certainly moving toward greater autonomy, military personnel on the battlefield remain sceptical about how quickly this technology can replace humans. Ukrainian serviceman Volodymyr, codenamed ‘Bison,’ explained to Ukraine’s Arms Monitor that sometimes such technologies as terminal guidance work adequately, but in some cases variable factors — for example, a gusty wind near the ground — can carry a drone off course. In such conditions, the algorithm cannot decide on its own to make a second pass. A computer simulation might, but on the battlefield, it cannot account for all the variables. “We are sceptical about this; so far, we have not seen widespread practical use of such systems. In an environment of dense radio traffic and rapidly changing front-line conditions, the most reliable navigation is visual,” he added.

Another problem is that technologies are unevenly distributed among Ukraine’s military units. As a result, many active combatants lack experience with certain systems if their unit has not received equipment with those capabilities.

Investment Opportunities

• Speaking about investment priorities for the next six months, Pär Lager, CEO of Swedish investment company Varangians, said the focus will remain on systems enabling unmanned operations and autonomy, next-generation unmanned solutions across all domains, and electronic-warfare technologies.

• “We also see strong demand for cost-effective air defense, including interceptors and counter-UAS systems, as well as platforms to counter disinformation and enhance intelligence. Next-generation communication systems and innovative demining solutions will also be critical. These areas reflect not only the immediate needs of the battlefield, but also the long-term priorities for strengthening European and global security,” he added.

• For the context, Ukraine is actively working on developing and applying AI technologies for demining: this July, the AI Data Jam hackathon in Kyiv’s Unit.City, the team Mine Watch AI developed a model that detects explosive hazards in drone imagery, earning $2,000 in funding from UNDP Ukraine and the Government of Luxembourg. The team continues its work with humanitarian demining experts.

• Denys Gurak, co-founder and CIO/COO of investment group MITS Capital, which also participated in the investment round for NORDA Dynamics, said that from a technological perspective, drone and counter-drone solutions will remain prominent investment priorities for at least the next couple of years.

• “Other key areas include AI-based software—particularly for swarms—along with aerial optical navigation, jet engines, microwaves, lasers, and next-generation explosives,” Denis added.

  Read my in-depth profile of Tencore, one of Ukraine’s leading ground-drone producers, which recently raised $3.74 million from MITS Capital.

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On a personal note, I’ve recently launched a campaign to raise $3,400 for fiber-optic equipment for the military unit of my university friend, who is currently serving in Ukraine’s Armed Forces. We’ve already raised almost half of the target amount, and I’d be deeply grateful for your donation!

Ways to donate:

• PayPal: link

• Subscription to my newsletter: 1 month – €15; 1 year – €70, “Supporter” tier - €150. Please drop me a note if you’d like the payment for your subscription to go toward the campaign!

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The iteration cycle for drones in Ukraine is just 4–6 weeks. To keep pace with this rapid development, many Western companies have established production facilities in the country. German drone manufacturer Quantum Systems is producing its Vector reconnaissance drones in Ukraine: the company opened a factory in April 2024, and now a network of its facilities manufactures 40–80 Vectors per month. Also, Ukraine became the first global user of the new Vector AI drones, equipped with the computing power to identify and track targets, as well as coordinate swarming and strike missions.

Quantum Systems is a company I’ve been wanting to write about for a while, and this time I was fortunate to receive a couple of comments directly from them.

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Quantum Systems and their Vector Drones

• Quantum Systems began as a manufacturer of agricultural drones in 2015. In its third year, the company launched the development of the dual-use Vector drone, which entered serial production in 2020.

• Vector drones were among the first donated to Ukraine as humanitarian aid in the initial weeks of Russia's full-scale invasion in early 2022.

• Since 2022, QS has expanded its presence by opening facilities across Ukraine, complementing its existing production and delivery lines in Germany, the United States, and Australia.

• Vector is an eVTOL fixed-wing ISR drone, making it ideal for long endurance missions at penetration depths of ~50km in Ukraine. Fixed-wing drones are larger, can fly longer distances, and are equipped with more advanced optics.

• A distinctive feature of QS drones is their ability to take off vertically like helicopters and then transition into horizontal flight like airplanes.

• According to soldiers operating these UAVs, the biggest advantage of the Vector drone is its camera.
  "It has three daytime cameras with different optical zoom levels. That means it has a 44x optical zoom, and for every 10–15 levels of zoom, there is a separate daytime camera. During daytime flights, we can also turn on the thermal imager at the same time and, for example, check activity in a tree line," one operator explained.

• It is noted that the farthest distance this crew has flown the Vector drone was over 40 km. However, the range depends on conditions, and overall, the drone can penetrate 45–47 km deep into enemy territory.
  According to a Ukrainian soldier, the drone can remain airborne for 2 hours to 2 hours 15 minutes when operating on standard batteries.

• Alongside the Vector, actively used by Ukraine’s defense forces, the company’s portfolio includes the electric VTOL drones Tron and Twister, the Trinity series, and the short-range tricopter Scorpion.

• In August 2025, Quantum Systems delivered Vector AI reconnaissance drones to Ukraine. These are equipped with the Polish WASP acoustic system, designed to detect artillery fire at distances of up to 15 km.

  Ukraine became the first user of this model.

• The sensor "allows drone pilots to detect artillery and other weapons from a large distance by the sound they make,” Politico reported.

• In an exclusive commentary to Ukraine’s Arms Monitor, Quantum Systems explained that the Vector AI features dual AI chips, giving the drone the necessary computing power to identify and track targets, as well as coordinate swarming and striking missions. Vector is also able to operate under GNSS-denied operations, which have become the norm in frontline operations in Ukraine.

• “VECTOR AI is based on our learnings from Ukraine and the battlefront, since the beginning of our operations in 2022. It was developed by and with the help of our team in Ukraine. Iterations on our Vector drones can vary, with fast same-day software patches to longer-term hardware upgrades. But generally speaking, we are looking at an improvement and update every 4-6 weeks,” a QS representative added.

• In terms of technical specifications, the new sensor can detect the direction of artillery or mortar fire at a range of up to 15 km, with an accuracy of 5 degrees at 5 km. This enables operators to quickly determine the approximate location of enemy artillery, which can then be precisely identified using the drone’s optical cameras.

Investment

• In 2023, the company became a Diia.City resident, and opened a service, support, training, and logistics center in Ukraine. An R&D center was later added, and production in Ukraine was launched the following year.

  Diia City is a legal and tax regime launched in February 2022. It aims to stimulate the development of technology businesses by creating favorable conditions for transparent business conduct, intellectual property protection, and tax burden reduction.

  Currently, there are more than 2000 Diia City residents in Ukraine. To become a resident, a company must be registered under Ukrainian legislation, engage in certain activities (software development and testing, including GameDev; robotics; cybersecurity; design and production of UAVs and their components etc), meet the conditions for admission, and prepare a package of documents.

• In May 2025, Quantum Systems raised €160 million in its Series C round, reaching unicorn status with a valuation of over $1 billion. In total, the company has attracted €310 million in investment.

• The new funding will be used to:

  • Advance research and development of AI drone systems

  • Expand production

  • Grow the company’s presence in Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region.

Service, Support, Training, and Logistics

• In 2023, the task of the Quantum Systems Ukraine office was to establish the SSTLC — Service, Support, Training, and Logistics Center, covering maintenance, repairs, operator training, and logistics.

• By 2024, QS Ukraine had repaired around 200 Vector systems, while more than 700 had been delivered to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Losses accounted for roughly 10% of those supplied.

• Day-to-day operations at SSTLC are designed for maximum speed and efficiency:

  • First-line support involves direct communication with pilots and commanders to gather full damage reports. With its own fleet of vehicles, the team can collect damaged UAVs from agreed frontline locations as early as the next day. Operators also receive ongoing assistance through Signal support groups and a dedicated pilot portal with all necessary guidance.

  • Second-line support is now fully localized in Ukraine. Previously, damage reports were forwarded to German engineers, but today most cases are handled domestically, with the German office stepping in only when needed. This localized approach has significantly accelerated response times.

Cooperation with Ukrainian Producers

• Quantum Systems Ukraine is now an integral part of the Ukrainian drone ecosystem and is cooperating with a number of partners in the country. Most notably with the Ukrainian company Frontline.

• This July, Frontline, which develops drones and combat modules, signed a memorandum of partnership with QS.

• Their plans include joint R&D efforts, integrating Ukrainian technologies into European defense systems, and scaling up production in Ukraine.

• Frontline representatives told AIN that the company’s products are planned to be integrated into Quantum Systems’ drones, including the VTOL models Vector and Twister, as well as into the Drone Port infrastructure for real-time autonomous reconnaissance.

• During the Joint Ventures, Joint Defence forum in Lviv this August, Oleksandr Berezhnyi, Managing Director of Quantum Systems Ukraine, stated that QS is looking for projects, teams, and products to invest in. “This year, we invested in Frontline — a Ukrainian company developing a replacement for the Mavic and targeting the U.S. market. We have also advanced the concept of modularity and a platform that can integrate both Ukrainian and European components, including software. Our computing power allows for running additional applications on this platform. That is why we are constantly seeking partners in Ukraine.”

Successful Cases

The joint operation of Virtus and Vector drones demonstrated how reconnaissance data can be turned into results within minutes.

• A video released on August 23 shows the coordinated use of reconnaissance and strike drones. The demonstration featured the Vector UAV from Quantum Systems and the Virtus UAV from Stark.

• In the footage, Ukrainian soldiers launch the reconnaissance drone, which flies over an unspecified sector of the Zaporizhzhia front. The drone hovers over the area while the operator scans for targets. Eventually, the barrel of Russian equipment is spotted among the foliage. Moments later, soldiers quickly launch the Virtus strike UAV (with vertical takeoff), which destroys the enemy object.

• This case shows how the Ukrainian Armed Forces are applying the recce-strike concept (reconnaissance + strike or hunter-killer), implemented in multidomain operations.

• Caliber Defence reports (referring to the original article by Waldemar Geiger in German) that the Ukrainian recce-strike approach is designed to let small, self-sufficient, low-signature squads conduct independent missions against high-value targets without relying on other units or higher command.

• Such squads usually consist of only a few soldiers using one or two pickup trucks to set up near the front and begin airborne reconnaissance.

• The reconnaissance drone is carried to an open area under the cover of a gunner—protection against FPV drone threats—and then launched.

• The Vector UAV scouts enemy territory for targets; in this case, it identified a self-propelled howitzer hidden in a wooded area. The squad then independently launched a Virtus loitering munition to strike the target.

• The Virtus, also carried to the open area, requires “marrying” to a warhead before launch. While this may appear to slow operations, Stark managers emphasize it as an advantage, as it lets squads tailor the warhead to the target—using a shaped-charge for armour or fragmentation for unprotected assets.

• As radio and navigation signals are disrupted throughout the operational area, the Virtus is guided to the target using computer vision-based waypoint navigation. The hunter-killer squad uses the same laptop for both drones.

• Separately, in July, a Vector unmanned aerial vehicle operated by Ukrainian forces was struck 11 times by small arms fire during a recent combat mission but still managed to return for repairs, Quantum Systems CEO Dave Sharpin reported. The mission was aborted only after “the gimbal took a direct hit,” he noted. Despite the damage, the UAV successfully made it back.

The company plans to expand in Ukraine. A German government international technical assistance program covers the costs of service, support, R&D, training, and logistics. The company’s own funds are directed toward building up production and expanding the team.

Additionally, achieving unicorn status could strengthen communication with both the Ukrainian government and foreign partners.

Read my recent articles on defence tech in Ukraine:

• Ukraine's Military Marketplace: Top-Rated Reconnaissance Drone by Airlogix;

• TerMIT Drone and the Future of Unmanned Ground Vehicles in Ukraine;

• Drone warfare in Ukraine: Operation Spiderweb.

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In mid-July, Ukraine achieved a remarkable milestone: the first documented unmanned attack involving both aerial and ground drones, which led to the capture of Russian soldiers. It’s becoming increasingly clear that the ground drones are going to make many more headlines in the months ahead. Not long ago, reports were still calling ground drones a “raw technology”—and now they’re driving enemy troops to surrender.

In the meantime, we learned that Tencore, one of Ukraine’s leading unmanned ground vehicles manufacturers, raised $3.74 million from investment group MITS Capital. This marks one of the first direct investments by a U.S. venture fund into a Ukrainian legal entity in the tech sector.

I had the chance to speak with representatives of MITS Capital, who also helped me get in touch with Tencore to prepare this material. In this edition, I’m combining business with pleasure by sharing some investment details, along with a strong focus on Ukraine’s defense technologies.

This newsletter is not sponsored; it's entirely supported by subscribers like you. Thank you for reading and supporting my work!

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Details of the deal

MITS Capital, a Ukrainian-American defense fund, serves as “a bridge between Western capital and Ukraine's defense ecosystem.” The fund has a portfolio of investments in Ukrainian defense and dual-use tech companies at the forefront of electronic, autonomous, and air/land/sea drone warfare.

MITS Capital has MITS Accelerator, a Y Combinator-style accelerator focused on defense tech startups. It offers entrepreneurs seed funding and an intensive 15-week boot camp. Its platform also includes the MITS Lightning Fund, and an investment advisory unit, with a mission to bring global capital into Ukraine’s defense industrial base.

At MITS Capital, they believe Ukraine is the only country in the Western world with a defense-industrial base capable of rivaling China in both capacity and cost structure. NATO/EU/US investments of $10 billion in Ukraine’s defense sector would establish a strategic foothold in a key industry, providing leverage against adversaries and strengthening NATO defense capabilities with battle-tested innovations.

According to the EY data, Ukrainian defense startups have seen a significant increase in investments, with $40 million raised in 2024. This marks a substantial jump from the $5 million raised in 2023. Brave1 Defense Tech Cluster announced plans to attract $100 million in investments in 2025, further boosting Ukraine's defense tech growth.

Perry Boyle, CEO and Founding Partner at MITS Capital, said that this deal with Tencore marks the first time a U.S. investor has used Ukraine's new legal framework to back a defense company. MITS Capital utilized Ukraine's special Diia City legal framework for tech companies to invest directly in Tencore's Ukrainian entity.

Diia City is a legal and tax regime launched in February 2022 in accordance with the Law of Ukraine “On Stimulating the Development of the Digital Economy in Ukraine”. It aims to stimulate the development of technology businesses by creating favorable conditions for transparent business conduct, intellectual property protection, and tax burden reduction.

Currently, there are more than 2000 Diia City residents in Ukraine. To become a resident, a company must be registered under Ukrainian legislation, engage in certain activities (software development and testing, including GameDev; robotics; cybersecurity; design and production of UAVs and their components etc), meet the conditions for admission, and prepare a package of documents.

Speaking about their experience with Diia City, COO of MITS Capital, Denis Gurak, said that the Ukrainian government created Diia City regime by following best practices from around the world—particularly Singapore and Nordic countries—while adapting them to Ukrainian realities, such as adjusting requirements for average salary, minimum revenue, and more.

Currently, over 300 defense tech companies operate under this regime and are considering entry into the potentially upcoming Defence City.

Another notable resident of Diia City is Quantum Systems, a German drone manufacturer that operates a production facility in Ukraine. For foreign companies, residency in Diia City provides conditions for establishing production and localization, stable operations, and tools for building a transparent and effective corporate structure.

Answering my question about why Tencore was chosen as the recipient of their largest publicly disclosed investment, Gurak explained: “Simply because they have proved they are worth it. We believe that Tencore is set to become a global leader in UGV developments. We don’t even call it a startup since they have outgrown this label. We thoroughly vetted their team and technology and see this company as one of the strongest players in their niche”.

Tencore is a Ukrainian-based developer and supplier of robotic platforms with a team of over 200 people.

“Our flagship is the TerMIT drone. From the very beginning, we designed it with a modular structure. This allows for quick replacement of components and batteries, and enables fast connection of any equipment — turrets, electronic warfare systems, or other devices used by the units," said Maksym Vasylchenko, Co-owner and CEO of Tencore, in his interview with ArmyFM.

TerMIT can be adapted to various tasks. The platform can be used for logistics, evacuation missions, engineering operations support, including mining and demining, and fire support for frontline units.

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TerMIT Specifications

TerMIT’s technical specifications are as follows:

• Weight: 280 kg

• Payload capacity: 300 kg

• Width: 120 cm, which means it can be transported in a regular pickup truck

• Operating time: up to 12 hours

• Speed: 10 km/h

• Range: 10 km on one battery (20 km with 2 batteries)

• Control distance: up to 20 km

• Cost: from $12,000

According to the developer, it can be used in both rain and snow; it has a protection level - IP 54.

One of the key features of the TerMIT drones is their high off-road capability. Thanks to its low center of gravity, the platform can carry loads at various angles of inclination. The tracked system ensures strong performance across forested areas, swamps, snow, sand, and rocky terrain. The platform’s logistical capabilities have even been tested in challenging mountainous conditions.

In September 2024, a TerMIT drone carrying its maximum load successfully ascended one of the highest peaks of the Ukrainian Carpathians—Pip Ivan Chornohirskyi (2,028 meters - 1,26 miles above sea level).

The TerMIT UGV offers three control options, depending on its configuration. First, a compact master controller—linked directly to a specific unit—allows for one-handed operation and is ideal for escort missions; soldiers note that even a wounded operator could evacuate themselves using this "one-finger" remote. Second, analog control uses a handheld device supported by a ground station with signal repeaters and amplifiers for extended range. Third, digital control provides the most secure and reliable connection, and with a satellite module like Starlink, the drone can be operated remotely from any distance via the internet.

65% of TerMIT drone components are produced locally in Ukraine. “Most structural elements, electronics, casings, and parts of the software are developed and manufactured in Ukraine. However, some components—such as batteries, controllers, certain chips, or sensors—are still being imported,” explained Vasylchenko to Ukraine’s Arms Monitor. “In this context, foreign investors can play an important role. First, by helping to establish joint production and localize the manufacturing of critical components in Ukraine or partner countries. Second, by contributing to the diversification of supply chains, which is crucial in wartime conditions. As an association of manufacturers, we are currently working on localizing the production of key components both in Ukraine and in partner countries,” he added.

The ground drone was codified and approved by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine in June 2025. The platform is also NATO-standard certified. Tencore is gradually adapting its systems to STANAG standards, which enables their use by the armed forces of NATO countries and also improves the overall quality and trust in the product. This is also a key to expanding exports and participating in international tenders.

The company is exploring the possibility of establishing assembly or licensed production facilities in partner countries, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe. This would help expand production capacity and ensure continuity of supply in the event of an escalation in hostilities in Ukraine.

“However, our strategic goal is to keep the core of production in Ukraine, as this is where we have the expertise, the team, and a deep understanding of the real needs of the frontline. And our partners understand that,” said Maksym.

Tencore produced over 800 units to date and plans to scale the number to 2,000 by the end of 2025.

Core functions of TerMIT

Depending on its configuration, the drone can perform a variety of tasks, including logistics, evacuation, minelaying, and strike missions. Each unit using the TerMIT drone can choose a configuration tailored to its specific needs.

The platform can be equipped with various modules, such as a machine gun or grenade launcher combat module, an electronic warfare (EW) system, a minelaying unit, and other configurations. Swapping out a module takes about 10 minutes and requires only a few wrenches and a power drill. Both tracks are interchangeable, and the TerMIT can be repaired at any standard auto repair shop equipped with a lift.

These systems are primarily intended to support the infantry because infantry soldiers carry everything on their backs, and by the time they reach their positions, they still need to find the strength to fight. That’s why these machines are designed, first and foremost, to make life easier for infantry troops — to transport loads that were previously carried by hand or moved using jeeps. “And as our politicians say, it's also economically efficient: the average unit costs around $10,000–15,000, depending on the configuration. But when you send four people and cargo in a jeep, and it gets hit — well, you do the math. As someone from the U.S. Army once said, wars are not won by troops, but by logistics.” Vasylchenko explained ArmyFM.

In the exclusive commentary to Ukraine’s Arms Monitor, he told about the successful case of the use of TerMIT by Ukraine’s Army: “One of the most striking cases is the use of the TerMIT drone during the evacuation of a wounded soldier from the ‘grey zone’ on the front line. Thanks to its compact size, low profile, and lack of crew, the drone was able to reach positions too dangerous for humans and evacuate the injured soldier under fire.

Another example is the use of TerMIT to handle an entire unit’s logistics. It can drive up to frontline positions without putting infantry lives at risk — and there are already dozens of such cases. You can also see videos of it in action on our social media pages (for example, on Instagram).” ⬇️

The developers also integrated the platform with the “Buria” grenade launcher turret, which allows soldiers to fire the Mk-19 grenade launcher remotely without exposing themselves to danger. “The turret’s automatic targeting system works very precisely—often even better than a human operator, especially when firing at multiple targets. A major advantage is that the turret can remember settings and quickly switch between targets, ensuring accurate strikes within a 20–30 meter radius,” said TerMIT drone operators.

Over 20 brigades are already working with TerMIT platforms for logistics, mining, and combat, such as Azov, Kraken, the 1st Assault Regiment, named after 'Da Vinci'.

In December 2024, it was reported that fighters from the “Freedom of Russia Legion,” who are fighting on Ukraine’s side, were equipped with TerMIT ground drones. The unit reported mounted heavy machine guns onto the robotic platforms. Specifically, the platforms were fitted with American-made Browning M2 heavy machine guns.

Earlier this year, it was reported that the TerMIT drone had been readied for combat missions by the special unit "Artan" of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine (GUR).

The future of drone warfare

Will we see the war of robots in the future? Vasylchenko answers that we are clearly moving toward the large-scale deployment of autonomous and remotely operated systems. “While it’s not yet a “robot war” in the sci-fi sense, today there are already dozens, even hundreds, of machines operating on the battlefield — participating in assaults, reconnaissance, mining, and logistics. Ukraine has demonstrated to the world what true “bottom-up innovation” looks like — innovation driven directly from the front lines”, he added.

We can expect to see mass deployment of these ground robotic systems within the next 1–2 years, especially if the current pace of production, funding, and government support is maintained.

Ukraine is currently leading drone innovations. Russia’s development of ground drones is hindered by centralization, complex logistics, and resistance to reforming outdated structures. While they have some interesting developments, practical use remains minimal.

Previously, I’ve reported on another Ukrainian ground drone, Murakha (Ant); you can read about it here.

Explore more in the Defense Tech in Ukraine section.

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The Ukrainian reconnaissance drone GOR is in the spotlight of my newsletter this week. It has become one of the primary targets for Russian forces due to its success in helping Ukrainian troops locate enemy positions and equipment.
This publication holds special meaning for me, as I was lucky to meet personally with a representative from the producing company, Airlogix. We spent several hours discussing drones and the war in general. I share some of those insights in the newsletter. Meetings like this are very important for my professional growth, and I hope there will be many more to come!

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Reconnaissance drones are another type of unmanned aerial vehicles that Ukraine is actively using against Russia, which, however, do not receive the same media attention as FPV or deep-strike drones.

According to Russians, the reconnaissance drones are a top priority for destruction, as these vehicles try to detect their positions and equipment. Russians try to deal with these drones with extreme caution and care, so as not to be detected while locking onto a target with an air defense system.

Unmanned Aerial Complex “Gor”, produced by the Ukrainian company Airlogix, has become one of the primary targets for Russian forces, alongside other well-known reconnaissance UAVs such as the Leleka-100, Shark, and Furia. Thus, details about current projects in development, production capacity, and the level of production workload cannot be publicly disclosed.

Gor was adopted by the Ukrainian Armed Forces back in 2022, and since then has helped to destroy Russian equipment worth several million USD. Today, over 700 units are deployed at the frontline. Its main task now is to locate enemy equipment and adjust Ukrainian artillery fire accordingly.

The standard package includes:

• 3 UAVs with EO-IR camera NextVision Raptor;

• tripod;

• UAV control station;

• catapult launcher;

• 6 battery sets of UAV;

• ground control station;

• antenna;

• Payload control station;

• communication equipment;

• 2 battery sets for GCS;

• 5 transportation packages;

• spare parts, tools, and accessories.

The UAV can stay airborne for about 4 hours and cover a distance of 260 kilometers, while it is ideal for tactical and strategic reconnaissance at distances up to 100 km. The drone flies at altitudes ranging from 100 to 3,500 meters. It is protected against electronic warfare and transmits precise coordinates without relying on GPS.

The exact specifications of this drone, according to Brave1 Market, are as follows:

• Cruising speed: 64 km/h

• Maximum speed: 108 km/h

• Flight duration: 4 hours

• Camera type: Daytime/infrared

• Tactical range: 100 km

• Navigation: GNSS, INS

• Launch type: Catapult

• Engine type: Electric

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“Speaking of the coolest features we have, our aircraft operates with two communication systems simultaneously. This means that if the Russians jam one system, the other continues to function.

They operate on different frequency bands, and most of the time, when we enter an electronic warfare zone, there's only one jammer in place, which can’t block both frequencies at once.

Secondly, we have an exceptional camera—an Israeli-made system (Raptor), considered the best in the world right now. It's used by top-tier European drones. The camera offers 80x zoom (40x optical and 2x digital) and allows for both day and night operations. It’s so powerful that you can see the expression on a Russian soldier’s face as an FPV drone flies straight toward him,” the company’s representative said during an interview with Telekanal Rada.

Earlier in May, fighters from the 68th Separate Rifle Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine shared how they use the “Gor” drone in their operations.

Before launch, the operators check the integrity of the wings and tail, then place the drone on a catapult. After a few minutes, the drone is already hidden in the sky and flying toward the enemy. From that point, control of the drone is conducted from underground. “On a single flight, we locate 3-4 enemy artillery pieces,” they said. The unit’s team operating this system consists of four people: an operator who manages the camera and payload, a pilot who controls the drone itself, a driver, and a technician responsible for the catapult.

“We have a dedicated training base where we prepare military personnel. Our main goal is to ensure that the drone is not lost during operations. One of its key features is that it lands like an airplane—on its fuselage—which means the pilot needs to have excellent skills. We dedicate two weeks to hands-on training and one week to theory. In addition, we offer an online component that the pilot completes before arriving at our school,” the company’s representative said.

The company currently has only one product that is already operational and performing tasks on the front line. However, it is also working on developing around 10 other products, which will soon be in the hands of soldiers on the front lines.

Without going into production details, the topics discussed in the conversation also highlight broader trends in drone warfare in Ukraine, offering valuable insights for defense professionals worldwide.

According to the company representative, this year will be a turning point for Ukraine. Currently, there are numerous claims suggesting that Russia holds technological superiority, but these are part of a disinformation campaign. The Ukrainian state reacts correctly - it does not respond to these claims. The situation in Ukraine is not as dire as it seems.

“Laser weapons are not science fiction—they are currently the most effective air defense against FPV drones. These systems burn out drones’ brains, optics, and disable the control systems of FPV drones, making it impossible for them to continue flying”.

In early February, Ukraine announced its development and testing of a laser weapon called Tryzub. In April 2025, footage from the system’s trials was shown in a video during the conference “European Defense Industry: Prospects for Cooperation with the Ukrainian Defense Industry.”

This laser complex is designed to engage both ground and aerial targets. It can be used to destroy attack drones and aerial bombs at distances of up to 3,000 meters. Reports also indicate its capability to neutralize cruise and ballistic missiles at the same range. Additionally, the "Tryzub" system is capable of destroying helicopters and aircraft at distances of up to 5,000 meters. Beyond physical destruction, the laser system can also optically suppress (blind) drones, cruise missiles, helicopters, and aircraft at distances of up to 10,000 meters.

“The Ukrainian missile program was essentially neglected for many years. Previously, Ukraine focused on land-to-water systems; now it’s land-to-land, and the results are evident. Currently, Ukraine is developing ballistic and cruise missiles. Since 2023, Ukrainians have begun developing their own missiles, realizing that no one would provide them in the required quantity. Missiles are a game-changer in this war. Ukraine has access to high-quality components and is not under sanctions. We can purchase excellent components and produce large quantities”.

Recently, President Zelensky said that Ukraine has made significant progress in its missile program. However, further development requires additional funding that is not covered by bilateral agreements with partners. Ukraine needs $30 billion to fully launch production across its defense-industrial sector.

The President emphasized that Ukraine aims to secure financing and safety for new production lines, including by establishing some of them abroad: “After the war, partners will be able to access these technologies. Some of these facilities will already begin operating this year”.

“Ukrainian deep-strike drones are 3–4 times cheaper than Russian equivalents. The technology hasn’t peaked yet — the peak is expected in 2025. Russia has mid-range drones like Molniya and Lancet, with limited range (40–60 km) and small-scale production. Ukraine has developed mid-range drones with ranges up to 150 km — it’s also a game changer. Over 20 producers are currently active in Ukraine, and Russians are overwhelmed and unsure what to target; this will continue. The commercial sector of Ukraine’s defense industry is outperforming the state-run one. There’s no rivalry between Ukrainian firms. While they all use different software, now they are moving toward standardization. The government is now promoting software unification to make systems interoperable”.

Deep Strike drones are long-range systems designed to strike targets deep inside Russian territory. In 2022, Ukraine expanded production of Deep Strike drones 22-fold since 2022. In Ukraine, long-range strike drones such as "Liutyi" and "Bober," as well as missile-drones like "Peklo" and "Palianytsia," fall into the category of deep-strike systems. The Defense Forces are also deploying other classified deep-strike assets. Currently, Ukraine’s industry has managed to localize the production of over 50% of deep strike drones.

The success of such drones has led the United States to select four companies to participate in the Artemis long-range kamikaze drone program, including two that are collaborating with Ukrainian firms.

The nature of the Russian-Ukrainian war has shifted priorities in the defense industrial complex, from state-centered needs to the needs of military personnel. The military units are the end users of these products. As a result, the entire defense tech ecosystem in Ukraine revolves around the priorities set by these units, something the Brave1 Market effectively reflects.

“This war is about the soldiers, not just command structures. Countries need to focus on the needs of their troops and ensure that what they fight with—and how they fight—matches their real demands,” said the representative of Airlogix.

The state, as an employer, must provide the right conditions, not enforcing uniformity as before, but enabling individuals to realize their full potential. This is made possible through platforms like Brave1 Market.

"Brave1 is a brilliant project that addresses many challenges: it's about acquiring tools for eliminating enemies and distributing them among units. It’s a logical and fair system: the most effective units receive the most drones”.

As I reported in one of my previous newsletters, “Gamification of War: Point Systems for Shooting Targets”, military units in Ukraine receive points for each destroyed target, which can be exchanged for additional UAVs or electronic warfare (EW) equipment.

The top 5 units in April 2025 by combat points earned are:

1. Madyar’s Birds;

2. The Special Group "Alpha";

3. Lasar group (National Guard of Ukraine);

4. 3rd Assault Brigade;

5. 3rd Separate Air Assault Battalion "Phoenix".

In June, the commander of the Madyar’s Birds, Robert "Magyar" Brody, was appointed head of the Unmanned Systems Forces of Ukraine.

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For the second edition of Ukraine’s Military Marketplace, I chose to feature another successful manufacturer, a producer of unmanned aerial vehicles, Drone Space Labs, that has recently joined the BRAVE1 Market. The company is a UAV laboratory that has been operating as an R&D centre since the beginning of the active phase of the war against Russia and focuses on the development and implementation of new technologies in the field of unmanned aerial systems. It works with nearly all entities within Ukraine’s security and defense sector, including the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the Security Service of Ukraine, the National Guard, and others.

I’ll begin with a general overview, followed by more detailed specifications of three selected products available on the Brave1 platform. The prices mentioned in this article reflect those listed on the BRAVE1 Market platform at the time of publication. For the most up-to-date information, please contact the manufacturers directly.

All information in this newsletter is based on open sources, the public catalog of the BRAVE1 Market platform, and exclusive commentary from the manufacturers. This publication is produced independently, without sponsorship or financial contributions from manufacturers, government officials, national or international organizations, or any other actors.

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Let’s begin this edition with international cooperation — an area where Drone Space Labs has already achieved notable success. A key point is that the company operates facilities in both Ukraine and the UK.

In correspondence with Ukraine’s Arms Monitor, the representative of Drone Space Labs explained that the company is working with the United Kingdom as part of an international partnership within the Drone Coalition, which was established to meet the needs of Ukraine’s Defence Forces: “This partnership with a British company enables us to expand technical cooperation and knowledge sharing, gain insight into NATO’s internal processes, and build valuable networks”.

For the context, in February 2024, during the 19th Ramstein meeting, the Drone Coalition was established. Latvia and the United Kingdom are currently coordinating the initiative. Additionally, the Coalition includes 15 other members. EUR 176 million has been accumulated in the Joint Fund, with contributions from Coalition members. Within the framework of the Joint Fund, the Coalition organizes tenders, serving as a tool to identify innovative solutions that can be scaled up.

Drone Space Labs selected the UK as a partner due to its active support for Ukraine and advanced technological expertise.

It was clarified in our communication that drones for foreign and Ukrainian users may differ in terms of configuration or technical specifications, depending on the specific requirements of the client. The current priority of Drone Space Labs is to meet the needs of Ukraine’s Defence Forces.

There are ten products and services available for order on the company’s website, seven of which were recently added to the Brave1 Market platform for Ukrainian customers.

Drone Space Labs views the launch of the BRAVE1 Market platform as a significant milestone for Ukraine’s defense technology sector. It promotes healthy competition, transparency, and increased awareness among both procuring entities and end users: “We have already been approached by potential clients through the platform — it serves as an additional effective channel in our sales.”

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The list includes the following products:

1. Velykyi Banderyk UAS - 1.296.000 UAH

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Brave1 is the united coordinational platform created by the Government of Ukraine to promote collaboration between all stakeholders of the defense tech industry.

In April 2025, Brave1 launched Brave1 Market, which is called an “Amazon for war”, where units can order the drones and equipment they need using either money or points earned in combat.

Access to this marketplace is divided into two catalogs:

• A public catalog available via Diia authorization.

• A closed catalog accessible only to verified military personnel through the Delta system.

After consulting with industry professionals, I’ve decided to create a dedicated information resource that highlights selected items available in the public catalog.

All information included in this newsletter is sourced from publicly available resources or the Brave1 Market platform, with written permission from the producers.

This publication is produced independently, without collaboration or financial contributions from military manufacturers, government officials, or any other actors.

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UGV Murakha (Ant)

The first item I chose to report on is the ground robotic complex Murakha (Ukrainian for “Ant”), produced by the Ukrainian company Robotic Complexes. Robotic Complexes is an engineering and design bureau that brings together over twenty specialists in engineering, mechanics, electronics, and software development. The company began operations in 2022, building on years of experience working with both aerial and ground-based drones in the agricultural sector.

Its production capabilities allow it to manufacture up to 120 units per year.

The UGV Muraha (Ant) is intended for logistics and evacuation purposes. It has the following characteristics:

• Payload Capacity: 300 kg

• Evacuation: 2+ people

• Body: Combination of steel and aluminum elements

• The product is equipped with an electro-hydraulic power unit.

• Weight: 580 kg

• Dimensions: 1730 x 1222 x 532 mm

• Ground Clearance: 200 mm

• Range: 40 km

• Speed: 9 km/h

• Operator: 1

• Maneuverability: Roll angle 30°, obstacle crossing angle 45°

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Ukraine's Ministry of Defense has provided 1.2 million unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to its military this year. In the coming years, Ukraine plans to expand its domestic drone production to reach 4 million units annually.

One of the key features of Ukraine's military-industrial complex is the decentralization of its production, as it relies not only on state-owned defense manufacturers but also on private companies, the number of which has grown significantly over the years. For instance, the number of drone manufacturers in Ukraine has increased from seven in 2022 to over 100 in 2024.

TAF Drones is a prominent Ukrainian manufacturer of First-Person View (FPV) drones. Although its main office is located in Odesa, the company operates several offices and production facilities throughout Ukraine.

The production of TAF Drones is dispersed among six cities, some 12 industrial locations operate all at once, which change every three months.

In its October-November edition, Forbes Ukraine published an interview with Oleksandr Yakovenko, the founder of TAF Drones. Below is a summary of the interview in English.

• Currently, the Ukrainian company TAF Drones produces 40,000 drones per month.

• In September 2023, the company was producing 6,000 drones per month, and by September 2024, the production increased to 40,000 drones.

• TAF Drones' first strategy is to mass-produce an easy-to-use product (FPV drones) at minimal cost. At the moment, the company has only one advantage, unfortunately, earned through blood: the experience of using various weapons on the front line.

• Yakovenko stated that there are very few truly innovative solutions for defense in Ukraine at the moment. New technologies are being developed based on existing solutions. The problem with Ukraine’s military tech sector is that state-owned companies have deep expertise in developing technological solutions, but they are neither fast nor always effective.

• The team at TAF Drones can move much faster than the government, but it lacks experience in long-term developments, such as the creation of engines, which can take 5–10 years.

• Ukraine’s military tech market has tripled since 2023. The private sector is now worth $1.5–2 billion per year. In 2025, we will see the first significant Western investments in Ukrainian military technology.

  Thanks to collaborations with private investors and international venture funds, Ukrainian defense innovation developers attracted over $25 million in 2024. For comparison, in 2023, the figure was $5 million.

• Currently, TAF Drones is in negotiations with foreign partners, which can be divided into three tracks:

  1. The first track is joint production and development on the territory of Ukraine. TAF Drones is already collaborating with two companies in this format: TAF assembles products for them in Ukraine and, in collaboration, further improves production based on current developments on the front lines.

  2. The second track involves Western partners making centralized purchases directly from private enterprises in Ukraine. There are two components to this. The first is that they simply provide the funds, and Ukrainians produce the goods. The second option under consideration is for some enterprises to open production facilities in nearby territories, such as the European Union.

     The equipment produced there would go both to Ukraine and the EU. However, there is a challenge here: while Ukraine has made significant progress in de-bureaucratizing processes, permits, access to weapons, and codification, this has not happened in the EU.

  3. The third track is to make Ukrainian solutions technologically attractive for foreign orders. The only way to enter the foreign market is through targeted innovations or an affordable product that has been tested on the battlefield and proven effective.

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• The path to creating an innovative military product within the country is blocked by the export ban.

  Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Kyiv imposed a ban on the export of military goods to other nations to ensure that the Ukrainian armed forces receive the necessary equipment to defend their territory.

• Currently, TAF Drones is testing different permit formats in the EU. “We can assemble our drone at a production facility in the EU and install our software—no permit is required for this.”

• Any foreign military-tech company has a civilian division that produces goods for civilian use. TAF Drones also needs to explore the civilian sector—without this, a company won’t survive. Military operations are cyclical, whereas civilian needs are constant.