Auterion to deliver 33,000 AI drone strike kits to Ukraine under $50 million Pentagon contract

By Defence Industry Europe

Auterion, the international defence software company, has announced a major agreement to deliver 33,000 artificial intelligence-powered drone “strike kits” to Ukraine. The $50 million contract, funded by the Pentagon, marks a significant escalation in Western support for Ukraine’s defence efforts.

 

The company’s CEO, Lorenz Meier, underlined the scale of the new initiative: “We have previously shipped thousands of our AI strike systems to Ukraine, but this new deployment increases our support more than tenfold. This is not only significant for Ukraine’s defence but also represents a substantial advancement in drone warfare technology.”

Auterion’s strike kits use the company’s advanced Skynode technology to convert manually-operated drones into autonomous systems capable of AI-based targeting. Once deployed, the drones resist electronic jamming and can accurately engage moving targets from up to one kilometre away.

 

defence industry 3 600

 

Already tested in combat across Ukraine, the Skynode Strike Kit enhances precision targeting in complex environments and improves operational success while reducing exposure to electronic warfare. The deal reinforces Auterion’s role in strengthening autonomous defence systems and demonstrates the United States’ growing investment in AI-driven military capabilities.

“Our technology provides allies and partners with advanced capabilities that they can integrate into their existing industry, enhancing their defensive capabilities while leveraging the manufacturing prowess of high volume drone manufacturers,” Meier said. The company has become a key player in U.S.-Ukrainian co-production, with its battle-proven systems attracting interest from NATO and Indo-Pacific nations.

Auterion anticipates that this agreement will serve as a model for future cooperation with NATO members and European allies seeking tested autonomous defence technologies. With offices in Arlington, Virginia, and Munich, Germany, the firm is well placed to support defence strategies on both sides of the Atlantic.

 

 

The Skynode technology has also been adopted by Taiwan, highlighting its relevance in global defence scenarios. As demand for autonomous military systems increases, Auterion is positioning itself as a vital strategic partner in international security efforts.

Shipments of the new drone kits are expected to begin in 2025, enabling rapid deployment and immediate operational use.

 

 

Tags:

Related news & articles

Latest news

Featured