US-German Firm to Deliver 33,000 AI-Powered Drone Kits to Ukraine Amid Rising Russian Strikes
July 27, 2025
Meier emphasized the importance of US-Ukrainian technological cooperation, highlighting Ukraine's battle-tested drone capabilities.
With the anticipated deployment of these kits, it is estimated that between 23,000 to 29,000 enemy drones could potentially be neutralized.
Auterion, a US-German software company, has secured a contract with the US Department of Defense to deliver 33,000 AI-powered drone 'strike kits' to Ukraine by the end of 2025, valued at nearly $50 million.
This new order represents a substantial increase in scale, with CEO Lorenz Meier stating it is '10 times in scale' compared to previous shipments.
The Pentagon is funding this significant production as part of broader security assistance to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
These Skynode drone 'strike kits' are designed to enhance Ukraine's ability to counter threats from Russian-Iranian Shahed kamikaze drones.
Meier noted that the Skynode S kits can achieve up to a 90% success rate in targeting, even under conditions of enemy electronic warfare.
The announcement comes amid a rise in Russian air strikes, which have increasingly targeted major Ukrainian cities.
The delivery of the kits is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, marking the largest transfer of such systems to Ukraine to date.
The Skynode kits will feature advanced technology, including mini-computers, cameras, and radio modules, enabling standard drones to operate as autonomous combat platforms.
The deployment of Skynode technology underscores ongoing collaboration between Ukraine and the US in drone production, enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities.
This unprecedented order marks a significant expansion of Auterion's role in Ukraine's defense, complementing the country's existing drone industry.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources

Ukrainska Pravda • Jul 27, 2025
Ukraine to receive 33,000 AI strike kits for combat drones – FT
UNITED24 Media • Jul 27, 2025
Pentagon Supercharges Ukraine’s Drones With 33,000 AI Guidance Systems
Caliber.az • Jul 27, 2025
US-German drone firm to deliver tens of thousands of AI drones to Ukraine | Caliber.Az