British Government representatives were briefed on the latest version of the Octopus drone

In Kyiv, the latest version of the Ukrainian interceptor drone Octopus was demonstrated to a British delegation led by UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy. At the event, the Ukrainian side underscored the high demand for interceptor drones to secure Ukraine’s skies.

The Octopus drone, developed by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, is equipped with an advanced AI-based control system. It is designed to counter Shahed-type unmanned aerial vehicles, and its effectiveness has been proven in combat. Close interaction between manufacturers and the military enables ongoing technology refinement and the development of a highly effective R&D ecosystem. Production of the drone is being rolled out in Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

Technology transfer enabling the production of the Octopus drone at UK facilities became possible following intellectual property reforms at the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.

Specifically, in May 2025, a dedicated Intellectual Property Department was established within the Ministry of Defence. Experts from the Department ensured compliance with legal requirements during the conclusion of the licensing agreement with the UK Government, including:

• ensuring legal protection of the technology in Ukraine;
• filing an application for the registration of the invention under international procedures;
• providing legal support for the licensing agreement with the UK Ministry of Defence.

In November 2025, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine and the UK Ministry of Defence signed a licensing agreement for the Octopus interceptor drone, enabling its production in the United Kingdom. Output may reach several thousand units per month. The manufactured equipment will be delivered to Ukraine to strengthen its air defence.