Should the Ukrainian model for UAS technology development be copied?
Ukraine has rapidly fielded many types of small UAS. (Photo: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine)
The country’s industrial defence transformation since 2022 has ramped up rapidly, offering Europe and NATO lessons in agility, innovation and rapid procurement. But how easily can, or should, such wartime innovation be copied?
The tendency to laud Ukraine’s rapid development of defence technology is well established. Many articles on the subject pay homage to the remarkable evolution from a 2022 base of virtually nothing to a 2025 rate of advance and output envied by many nations.
While most of Ukraine’s heavy equipment (aircraft, artillery, air defence) was from existing stocks or donated, much of the (often novel) mid-level tactical support capability has been home-grown. This has been particularly – but not only – true of the ubiquitous uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) segment.
This is a feat of staggering proportions. Government-industry-military relations have been
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Airbus Helicopters is deepening its European reach as NATO orders climb]()
Airbus Helicopters is deepening its European reach as NATO orders climb
Airbus has delivered more than 2,000 helicopters to nations across Europe, and continues to solidify its position at the heart of the region’s defence industrial base.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: Airbus details A400M upgrade as second Indonesia aircraft delivery looms]()
World Defense Show 2026: Airbus details A400M upgrade as second Indonesia aircraft delivery looms
With the A400M set for a capability upgrade, Airbus officials are bullish about the aircraft and its market potential for both new and existing customers with the improvements geared towards meeting future requirements.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs
Shephard spoke with Rafael’s CEO about the company’s effector offerings as well as his perspective on one-way attack drones.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon]()
World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon
L3Harris has completed the production candidate software load for its Viper Shield airborne electronic warfare system and is conducting sea trials with its VAMPIRE counter-drone system.
