Germany to Fund Production of Advanced Ukrainian Drones
Germany plans to provide Ukraine with more than 100 million euros for the development of the new strike drones model An-196, which can hit targets at distances exceeding one thousand kilometers.
This information was reported by Spiegel citing its sources.
Hundreds of An-196 Drones to Be Produced with German Support
According to the publication's sources, the German government intends to invest a substantial amount in the production of Ukrainian combat drones, measured in hundreds of millions of euros.
The funds will specifically be allocated for the creation of An-196 strike drones.
These drones are designed for targeting deep behind enemy lines, equipped with warheads, and capable of covering distances of up to 2000 kilometers.
It is expected that with German funding, Ukraine will be able to produce several hundred of these combat drones.
This move aligns with the overall strategy of the European Union to integrate Ukraine's defense industry, capitalizing on its unique experience gained during the war with Russia, particularly in drone production.
Sources suggest that further investments from other partner countries will significantly enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities.
Lyutyi (An-196) - Key Information
“Lyutyi” is a Ukrainian kamikaze strike drone intended for targeting at long distances.
The development of the drone was announced by the state concern “Ukroboronprom” in October 2022, stating plans to create a drone with a warhead of 75 kg, a total weight exceeding 200 kg, and extended flight range.
The production of the first serial batch of these drones was completed in August 2023.
It is believed that one of the first combat uses of “Lyutyi” occurred on August 28, 2023, when Ukraine's Special Operations Forces attacked a base of the 126th Coast Guard Brigade of the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Federation, located in occupied Crimea.
