Ukraine and Norway launch joint production of mid-strike drones

Ukraine and Norway are establishing their first joint production of Ukrainian UAVs.  Several thousand mid-strike drones are planned to be manufactured in Norway. All products manufactured under the project will be delivered to the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

The project will be financed by the Norwegian side from additional funds provided on top of the previously allocated $7 billion in defence support for Ukraine in 2026.

The agreement was signed in Kyiv by Lars Ragnar Aalerud Hansen, Ambassador of Norway to Ukraine, and Sergiy Boyev, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defence for European Integration.

The agreement opens up opportunities to scale up the production of equipment based on Ukrainian technologies that have already proven effective on the battlefield, while strengthening the defence capabilities of both countries.

Over $1.5 billion for the procurement of Ukrainian weapons in 2026

This year, Norway plans to allocate over $1.5 billion to procure Ukrainian-made weapons for the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

“I would like to thank Norway for its systematic support and for focusing on the capabilities that Ukraine critically needs. Joint production projects and guaranteed baseline drone supply for brigades directly strengthen our forces on the battlefield. Norway gains the opportunity to produce technologies that have proven effective, while Ukraine receives the drones needed to seize the initiative on the battlefield. This is a true win-win partnership,” said Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Mykhailo Fedorov.

First deliveries of drones expected by summer

The first systems manufactured in Norway are expected to be delivered to the Defence Forces of Ukraine as early as this summer.

The agreement also provides for the development of comprehensive industrial cooperation, including research activities.

“Supporting Ukraine’s fight to defend itself is the most important thing we are doing for Norway’s security. This is a cooperation that benefits both countries. It is an important and tangible step towards deeper Norwegian-Ukrainian cooperation, strengthening Norway’s defence industry while enabling Ukraine to produce drones in a secure environment in Norway,” said Norway’s Minister of Defence, Tore O. Sandvik.

According to him, the experience gained through this project will enable Norway to scale up its production capabilities in a critically important area.