Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence has approved a major reallocation of funds to strengthen its drone capabilities and support frontline forces, Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal announced on Saturday, August 2.
₴8 billion for frontline drone units
According to Shmyhal, ₴8 billion (approximately \$220 million) will be directed to urgent needs of Armed Forces units involved in the national “Drone Line” project, as well as newly formed formations specializing in unmanned systems. Among the supported units are “Ptakhy Madyara,” K2, “Raroh,” “Akhilles,” “Nemezis,” and “Chornyi Lis.” These units, the minister said, destroyed over 22,700 enemy targets in July alone.
₴1 billion for anti-drone protection of evacuation and supply routes
An additional ₴1 billion will go toward anti-drone defense systems designed to protect evacuation corridors and critical logistics routes across the frontline.
Partnership with the Netherlands and €837 million in drone contracts
Ukraine is also working with international partners to scale its domestic drone industry. As part of a bilateral agreement with the Netherlands, Ukrainian-made drones will be procured for frontline use. Through this initiative, state-owned Oschadbank has already issued bank guarantees for drone contracts totalling €837 million.
“Our goal is clear: more drones and more advanced weaponry for our defenders,” Shmyhal said.