The defence group’s move is consistent with Kyiv’s aim to be a global drone hub.
Antonov’s cargo plane expertise could extend to long-distance drones used by the Ukrainian army.
Antonov’s new drone centre was opened “with the aim of enhancing unmanned systems’ manufacturing capabilities and providing support to private unmanned systems manufacturers in terms of expertise and services,” the presentation by Ukroboronprom, which oversees Ukraine’s defence sector, said.Antonov did not respond to requests for comment on the centre and expansion plans in the drone sector. A Ukroboronprom spokesman declined to comment, citing security concerns.
In a symbolic blow, the An-225 Mriya, at the time the world’s largest cargo plane and for which Antonov is best known, was destroyed early on in the war. The new Antonov centre offers services including experimental aerodynamic studies, the creation of fully functional simulators for training Unmanned Aerial Vehicle operators, and developing component standards, according the presentation, which listed 26 functions.Kyiv has used aerial drones to attack airfields and Russian troops, and aquatic drones against ships and a bridge. It also presents itself as a live battlefield testing ground for drone innovations by the world’s defence suppliers.
According to recent statements by senior officials, Ukraine has around 200 drone manufacturers and its armed forces have signed supply contracts for 30 new models of domestically-produced drones. A smaller-scale Ukrainian drone maker visited by Reuters this year employs ex-Antonov engineers to make long-range drones.