Germany launches production of 5,000 long-range drones for Ukraine
Photo: Long-range drone (auterion.com)
Germany has begun production of more than 5,000 long-range strike drones for Ukraine. The first units are already ready, while the tested systems will enter service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces later this year, Handelsblatt reports.
The drones are being produced near Munich by a joint venture formed in February by the German-American company Auterion and Ukrainian developer Airlogix. The initiative is backed by the German government, with defense industry sources estimating the contract at around €300 million.
The partners plan to fully complete the large-scale order by mid-2027. At the same time, the companies expect to receive new orders and establish long-term cooperation in the future.
To maintain high production rates, drone assembly is being carried out not only at the facility near Munich but also at an additional plant in eastern Germany.
Technical specifications and division of responsibilities
The facilities assemble two models of drones: a medium-range version and a long-range variant capable of traveling up to 1,500 kilometers. All the drones are single-use and carry explosives to strike enemy targets.
The companies have clearly divided their technological responsibilities within the cooperation. Ukrainian Airlogix supplies the airframes and mechanical components, while Auterion is responsible for the software and operating system.
Artificial intelligence has been integrated into the drones' software. It allows them to successfully reach designated targets even when subjected to active jamming by enemy electronic warfare systems.
According to Auterion CEO Lorenz Meier, the project has given Germany its own production line for precision and relatively affordable weapons that can be manufactured in large quantities.
Earlier, it was reported that jet-powered Shahed drones, which can reach speeds of more than 400–450 km/h, are becoming increasingly difficult targets for interceptor drones, as most of them cannot maintain such speeds.
