A drone manufacturing plant in Kyiv faced a unique situation: it could produce more combat drones than the Ukrainian army needed. The founder mentioned during a March tour that they could assemble 4,000 of the larger “Vampire” drones monthly. Smaller drones, similar to those used against Russia’s bomber aircraft, could be produced at an even faster rate, approximately 4,000 per day.
The factory’s production line was loud, and ’80s music was playing. The founder confirmed that they could produce 4,000 drones daily at full capacity, but they were currently only producing around half that number.
According to , the recent attack on Russian air bases, some as far as Irkutsk in Siberia, involved 117 kamikaze drones. Each drone costs about $400 to make, while the destroyed Russian aircraft were worth billions. Ukraine believes this operation was one of the most cost-effective in military history. While those responsible deserve recognition, it’s important to consider the future implications of such weapons, both in Russia and globally.
Currently, Ukraine prohibits weapon exports during the war, so the drones remain within the country. However, these restrictions are expected to be lifted after the war, potentially flooding the global market with Ukrainian drones. Last year, Ukraine produced over two million combat drones of various types, and it aims to double that this year.
The Ukrainian government sees the foreign market for these weapons as crucial for post-war reconstruction and rearmament. suggested last year that drone sales could generate around $20 billion for Ukrainian manufacturers, which could then be reinvested in the domestic arms industry.
The factory founder mentioned receiving purchase requests from several European nations, as well as Egypt, India, and Pakistan. He noted that these countries recognize the drones’ effectiveness due to their combat testing, but asked to remain anonymous for security reasons.
The widespread availability of these drones may force governments worldwide to reconsider their military strategies and security protocols for protecting high-ranking officials.
Last fall, a Ukrainian military intelligence officer displayed a drone prototype used in multiple Russian strikes. Resembling a model airplane with an explosive payload, the officer claimed it had a range of at least 1,000 miles. He expressed pride in the drone’s innovative design.
However, as a security expert, he also questioned the potential consequences of these weapons falling into the wrong hands. He warned that traditional strategies for protecting military assets would become inadequate.
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