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At the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Ukraine is showcased its advanced drone technology, developed through extensive combat experience during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Ukrainian manufacturers are presenting their cutting-edge drones as a solution for both military and civilian needs, aiming to capture global markets in the process.
Among the showcased products are the Shrike and Vampire drones, which have proven themselves in real-world operations. The Shrike, for instance, played a significant role in a successful attack on a Russian convoy in October 2023. The Vampire drone, recently deployed to a Ukrainian brigade, has already been credited with destroying $56 million worth of Russian assets, including tanks, artillery, and air defense systems.
At CES 2025, Ukrainian drone companies are also seeking to establish connections with global investors and tech leaders, further positioning Ukraine as a key player in the drone manufacturing sector.
According to Interesting Engineering, a representative from the Ukrainian defense industry shared details about the dual-purpose capabilities of their drones, which serve both military applications and humanitarian functions. These drones are designed to be both versatile and durable, with the larger models able to carry up to 15 kilograms of cargo. On top of military equipment, they are used to deliver critical supplies like food, water, and medical equipment to areas where human access is too risky. Operating at low altitudes, the drones are less detectable by enemy radar and can drop cargo without landing, enhancing operational efficiency. With a range of up to 15 kilometers, they are equipped with automatic return-to-launch-point functionality if the connection is lost, ensuring minimal risk of failure.
A smaller FPV drone was also showcased, weighing just 2.5 kilograms. According to Interesting Engineering, it is designed for lighter missions, including surveillance. Despite its compact size, it has proven effective in military operations.
Ukrainian manufacturers are also proud to emphasize that all components—ranging from materials to software—are sourced locally. With these drones proving their worth in both military and humanitarian contexts, Ukraine’s participation at CES 2025 underscores its growing role in the global drone industry and its potential to be a reliable alternative to other leading manufacturers, such as those from China.