EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled a drone cooperation agreement with Ukraine aimed at accelerating joint production of essential battlefield systems.
Issued on: 15/07/2026 – 20:19
2 min Reading time
The agreement formalises the EU-Ukraine drone partnership, building on previous support mechanisms.
The arrangement is tailored to each partner, typically involving the transfer of Ukrainian blueprints in exchange for royalties, investment and additional defence equipment.
Blueprints
The models are adapted to each country, but generally entail Kyiv providing technical schematics for drone systems in return for financial returns, capital investment and further defence equipment.
“However, Europe does not possess the battle‑tested expertise that Ukraine has cultivated through years of conflict,” von der Leyen said in Kyiv after receiving an award from President Volodymyr Zelensky.
“We can collaborate on joint production, ensuring that all components of the system work cohesively, and drive both defence industrial bases to increase investment and output,” she added.
The EU is strengthening its drone capabilities following a series of incursions along its eastern frontier adjacent to Ukraine and Russia.
“Yet we lack the combat‑tested knowledge and experience that Ukraine has forged,” she noted.
“By working together on production, we can ensure that all parts of the system function effectively and spur both defence industrial bases to significantly increase investment and manufacture,” von der Leyen said.
“The expertise you have developed in operating and counter‑drone systems is truly unique,” von der Leyen told Zelensky in her speech.
“We must leverage this together, because we understand the threats that Europe faces in this domain.”
Von der Leyen did not disclose specifics regarding any new financing linked to the agreement.
Europe remains Ukraine’s principal backer in its conflict with Russia, having recently commenced the disbursement of a €90 billion loan to equip its forces and address budget shortfalls.
10 million drones
An initial €6 billion of the loan is earmarked to accelerate Ukraine’s drone manufacturing capacity.
Drones have become dominant on the front lines, inflicting heavy losses on Russian attacking forces.
Kyiv has also refined its ability to intercept Russian attack drones targeting urban areas across the country.
In a speech, Zelensky stated that Ukraine is currently producing 10 million drones annually and aims to double that output.
“Together with our partners, we will achieve this, further demonstrating the success of Ukraine’s defence industry, as well as that of our collaborators and Europe’s,” he added.
(With newswires)
