EU-Ukraine Drone Alliance brings together startups and defence groups to scale unmanned technologies
The newly formed EU-Ukraine Drone Alliance, backed by the European Commission, includes nine European and nine Ukrainian founding members, ranging from startups like Quantum Systems and Destinus to major industrial groups. The initiative aims to combine Ukraine's battlefield drone experience with Europe's industrial capacity for joint production and technology development.
Establishment and Members
The EU-Ukraine Drone Alliance was announced during the third EU-Ukraine Defence Industry Forum in Kyiv. It has 18 founding members: nine European and nine Ukrainian companies. European members include startups Quantum Systems (Germany), Destinus (Switzerland/Germany), ORQA (Croatia), Delair (France), and RSI Europe, alongside large industrial groups Indra Group, Fincantieri, WB Electronics/WB Group, and TERMA A/S. Ukrainian members are Skyfall Industries, Greentech Harvest, Tencore, Deviro, Vyriy Industry, Scientific Production Company ATHLON AVIA, TAF Industries, UFORCE, and F-Drones.
Role and Objectives
The Alliance is part of the broader EU-Ukraine Drone Deal, which seeks to integrate Ukraine's defence economy with Europe's by removing barriers and aligning standards. It will focus on joint ventures, technology transfers, research, and faster deployment of operational systems. Targets include joint production of drones and counter-drone systems by end of 2026, and anti-ballistic missiles by 2028.
Key Startups: Quantum Systems and Destinus
Quantum Systems, founded in 2015 near Munich, develops interoperable unmanned systems with its MOSAIC UXS software backbone. It has been operating in Ukraine since 2022, expanding manufacturing and forming a joint venture through Quantum Frontline Industries. Destinus, another prominent DefenceTech startup, raised €50 million in late 2025 and leads a consortium to develop an anti-missile defence system.
Funding Landscape
In 2026, disclosed financings in relevant European unmanned systems companies reached approximately €1.08 billion, dominated by Quantum Systems' €1 billion Series D. Other rounds backed autonomy software, drone platforms, and counter-UAS systems. At the fund level, the E2D growth vehicle and DTCP Defence each raised €500 million, while Varangians launched a €9.1 million Ukraine-focused DefenceTech fund. The European Commission disbursed an additional €1 billion for Ukrainian drone procurement under the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan and approved a €10 billion plan for drones, missiles, and fighter aircraft.
Next Steps
The first meeting of the 18 founding members is scheduled for September in Brussels to set strategic priorities and identify areas for technological cooperation.
