Defence City launch, record interceptor drone deliveries, and procurement reform: the Ministry of Defence’s highlights of the week

The manufacturer of the iconic Vampire drones has become the first Defence City resident; military units are now receiving 1,500 interceptor drones per day; the Ministry of Defence has transitioned to a unified, centralized procurement management model—and more. Below is a summary of the key events in the defense sector over the past week.

Defence City: launch of a new defense industry ecosystem

The Defence City state special framework has officially begun operating. The first resident is a Ukrainian drone manufacturer known for producing Vampire and Shrike UAVs, as well as interceptors for Shahed loitering munitions. The special framework grants manufacturers exemptions from land, property, and environmental taxes, as well as from corporate income tax, provided profits are reinvested. Defence City aims to accelerate weapons production, attract investment, and offer defense companies simplified customs procedures.

Air shield: daily supply of 1,500 interceptor drones

During December–January, the average daily supply of interceptor drones reached 1,500 units. This significantly enhanced protection both at the front line and in rear areas. The DOT-Chain Defence marketplace has become a key instrument; through the platform, units have already received over 7,000 tactical-level drones. Using interceptor drones helps conserve costly air defense missile resources and enhances protection density for logistics and personnel.

Frontline robotization: ground robotic systems deliveries exceeded the plan

In 2025, the Ministry of Defence fully met the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s requirements for ground robotic systems. Deliveries by the Defence Procurement Agency exceeded the order by more than 100%. In addition, 62 systems were delivered through the DOT-Chain Defence platform. The development of ground drones is part of a human-centric defense strategy aimed at automating hazardous tasks and preserving defenders' lives.

Single point of accountability: a new stage of procurement reform

From January 1, 2026, all procurement for the military—from weapons and equipment to food and fuel—is carried out by a single Defence Procurement Agency. This marks the final stage of a reform that began in 2023. Digitalization through the DOT-Chain has already enabled the digitization of 70% of documentation. Plans for the current year include further scaling of the system and strengthening the role of the military in equipment-related decision-making.

NATO-standard logistics: SAP-based system launched 

The military has officially launched the SAP-based Digital Logistics Management System.
 Used by leading armies of NATO member states, the system automates procurement and financial accounting, reducing bureaucracy. More than 1,000 military units are currently connected to the system, enabling real-time tracking of resources—from UAVs to non-lethal supplies.

Ukraine and the United Kingdom: roadmap for a one-hundred-year defence partnership

Ukraine’s Minister of Defence and the UK Defence Secretary signed a document outlining the development of a long-term partnership. Among the key agreements is the start of production of 1,000 Octopus interceptor drones per month beginning in February. The discussions also covered the localisation of Gripen aircraft, joint projects in air defence and long-range weapons, and the protection of Ukraine’s maritime borders.