Ukraine signs memorandum with Swift Beat to boost drone production

The agreement outlines a long-term cooperation framework aimed at increasing the volume and technological capacity of drone production for Ukraine’s defence needs. According to the Ministry of Defence, the memorandum prioritises the supply of drones to Ukraine and foresees a large-scale manufacturing initiative encompassing interceptor drones, quadcopters, and strike-capable unmanned systems.

“This is another important step toward our strategic goal: gaining technological superiority on the battlefield and systematically strengthening the capabilities of the Armed Forces in the air,” said Defence Minister Rustem Umerov following the signing. He added that the agreement represents part of a broader effort to develop new technological solutions for countering cruise and ballistic missile threats.

The Defence Minister specified that the project envisions the production of hundreds of thousands of drones in 2025, with further scaling of output planned for 2026. Among the systems prioritised are Shahed-interceptor drones, which have already demonstrated operational effectiveness within Ukraine’s defence framework.

Under the terms of the memorandum, deliveries to Ukraine will be made under special conditions, specifically at production cost. This approach is intended to facilitate rapid procurement and deployment of the systems to meet pressing operational requirements.

“The mass use of drones has become one of the defining features of this war,” said Umerov. “To effectively protect our people, cities, and critical infrastructure, Ukraine is building up its own ‘drone arsenals’ by leveraging the potential of the world’s leading manufacturers.”

He emphasised the need for modern equipment across all units in the Armed Forces, including capabilities for reconnaissance, surveillance, and offensive operations. Minister Umerov also expressed appreciation to Swift Beat for their readiness to act swiftly, as well as to all partners supporting Ukraine’s defensive efforts.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also commented on the agreement, describing it as a joint production initiative between Ukraine and the United States. “This is a co-production document between Ukraine and the United States. It will involve several companies focusing on various types of drones,” he said.

According to the President, the main objective of the memorandum is the production of interceptor drones, which have already proven effective in Ukrainian service. He highlighted the scale of planned production: “This year – hundreds of thousands of drones. And next year – there will be an increase.”

President Zelenskyy further underlined the strategic importance of expanding Ukraine’s ability to counter drone threats, particularly those posed by Iranian-made Shahed drones used by Russian forces. “We have just signed a very serious contract. We are very much looking forward to shooting down Shaheds in large numbers. So I consider this a good start – working in this direction,” he said.