Ukraine’s military is set to receive 4,000 attack drones equipped with artificial intelligence from Germany, according to Militarnyi.
The German publication Bild cited sources confirming that the defense company Helsing has been granted permission to supply these drones. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius also hinted at the plans in a statement, effectively confirming the deal.
These kamikaze drones are designed to operate with high autonomy, even under electronic warfare conditions. They can effectively strike distant targets, thanks to advanced artificial intelligence technology. Deliveries are expected to begin in December, with several hundred units arriving monthly.
According to Bild, prototypes are already being tested in combat in eastern Ukraine and are being improved based on real-world results.
A standout feature of these drones is their modern software, which enables them to navigate terrain using multiple markers. This allows them to fly to their target even in bad weather or under electronic jamming. Once a target is identified and confirmed by an operator, the drone can engage autonomously, even if communication is lost—using what appears to be an end-of-flight guidance system.
The drones reportedly have a flight range four times greater than typical Ukrainian counterparts, although the article does not specify which drones are used for comparison. Additionally, they are said to be cheaper than the American Switchblade or Russian Lancet models.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius expressed his enthusiasm for the delivery, stating, “I’m very happy that these AI-equipped drones will soon be available for Ukraine to use against important enemy targets.”
This agreement follows a memorandum of cooperation signed in February 2024 between Ukraine’s Ministry of Strategic Industries and the Helsing company. The partnership underscores Germany's growing support for Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
