Ukraine Proposes Joint Drone Defense Initiative for Europe

Ukraine has extended an offer to European nations to enhance their defenses against Russian drone incursions, leveraging its extensive battlefield experience. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced during a security forum in Warsaw that Kyiv is ready to collaborate with countries like Poland to construct a “joint, truly reliable shield” against aerial threats. This proposal comes as EU leaders convene in Denmark to discuss regional defense strategies.

Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s capacity to counter various types of Russian drones and missiles. Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine has faced an increasing number of aerial assaults, with reports indicating that Moscow now launches hundreds of drones in a single strike. Earlier this year, Zelenskyy warned that Russia aims to escalate drone attacks to as many as 1,000 per day. Despite these challenges, Ukraine claims it can intercept around 90% of incoming drones, even during significant attacks such as the one on September 7, when Russia deployed a record 810 Shahed-type drones.

Collaboration on Drone Defense

As part of Ukraine’s initiative, a group of military experts is currently in Denmark to share their strategies for countering drone threats. The training exercise, dubbed “Wings of Defence,” unites Ukrainian and Danish forces to practice countermeasures against unmanned aerial vehicles. This collaboration follows recent drone incursions that forced temporary airport shutdowns in Denmark, prompting heightened security concerns.

Poland has shown interest in Ukraine’s expertise after experiencing similar drone incidents in its airspace. Zelenskyy stated that the outcomes of the Danish mission will lay the groundwork for expanded cooperation among European nations in drone defense.

Ukraine’s Arms Export Strategy

In a related development, Zelenskyy addressed the United Nations General Assembly earlier this month, announcing plans to export domestically produced weapons. This decision marks a significant shift from previous restrictions imposed when martial law was declared at the outset of the war. Zelenskyy expressed confidence in the reliability of Ukrainian arms, stating, “You don’t have to start from scratch; we’re ready to share what’s already proven effective in real-world defense.”

Ukraine’s defense industry has seen substantial growth since the invasion, particularly within the drone sector. Reports indicate that Ukraine currently manufactures over 4 million drones annually, with the potential to double production if adequately funded. Approximately 800 arms producers operate in the country, with over 200 focused on drone manufacturing. These systems are designed to be adaptable and cost-effective, significantly influencing modern warfare.

Ukrainian defense manufacturers have urged Zelenskyy to lift export restrictions, particularly for drones, to facilitate growth and better integrate into Europe’s security framework. Their appeal highlights a desire for Ukraine to transition from a recipient of international support to a robust partner capable of exporting security through collaboration and technology.

European nations are particularly interested in Ukraine’s interceptor drones, which can match the speeds and altitudes of larger Russian drones while costing around €4,200 each. These drones are equipped with explosive charges that detonate near their targets, making them a viable option for defense.

As part of its broader strategy, Ukraine plans to open weapons production lines in partner countries and has proposed three new export platforms targeting America, Europe, and other global allies. On September 29, a Ukrainian delegation attended a meeting in the United States focused on joint drone production efforts. Zelenskyy aims to balance agreements for acquiring American weapons while promoting the export of Ukrainian drones.

This initiative includes a significant agreement with U.S. company Swift Beat to co-produce hundreds of thousands of drones in the coming year. Zelenskyy’s administration is actively working to position Ukraine as a reliable partner in global defense, reinforcing its role not only as a recipient of aid but also as a contributor to international security solutions.