Zelensky announced the start of Ukrainian drone production in Germany in February
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine will begin manufacturing drones in Germany in mid-February. He made this announcement during a speech at the Kyiv Aviation Institute on Sunday, 8 February.
According to the head of state, the first production line in Germany is already ready for operation. Zelensky noted that he will personally accept the first drone manufactured on this line. He also recalled that similar production facilities for Ukrainian drones are already operating in the United Kingdom, and all these projects are based on Ukrainian technologies.
The president said that ten export centres for Ukrainian weapons are planned to open in Europe within a year, including in the Baltic states and Northern Europe. According to him, Europe's security increasingly relies on technology and drones, and Ukrainian developments and engineers will play a key role in this.
Zelensky also stressed that 2026 should be a year of investment in Ukrainian technology, primarily in the field of unmanned systems. He emphasised that this is already the largest industry in Ukraine in terms of funding during the war. Currently, there are about 450 companies producing drones in the country, of which 40-50 are leading market players.
The president also noted the promising development of aviation as an area for investment. During his visit, he granted the Kyiv Aviation Institute national status, emphasising the importance of aviation education and the restoration of strong Ukrainian aviation traditions.
During his conversation with students and teachers, they also discussed the development of combat aviation, the prospects for the supply of Gripen and Rafale aircraft, as well as the serial mass production of various types of drones. According to Zelensky, the state will continue to support this area, in particular through cooperation with the Air Force and the attraction of foreign investment.
