Germany Confirms AI-Powered Drones for Ukraine

Germany has confirmed plans to deliver AI-powered drones to Ukraine and expand cooperation on ammunition production to bolster Kyiv’s defense amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius hosted a meeting in Berlin on November 25 with defense leaders from France, the U.K., Poland, and Italy. The talks focused on strengthening European defense capabilities, supporting Ukraine, and enhancing defense investments and military systems. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov joined the discussion via video to address the escalating conflict.

Pistorius emphasized Russia’s increasingly aggressive actions and highlighted the importance of European and transatlantic unity. He expressed Germany's commitment to aiding Ukraine, including delivering AI-powered kamikaze drones and ramping up ammunition production.

German tabloid Bild recently reported that Berlin is funding a contract with the defense tech firm Helsing for 4,000 AI-controlled drones, nicknamed “Mini-Taurus” for their power and effectiveness. These drones, reportedly resistant to GPS jamming and capable of independently targeting enemy assets, offer four times the range of drones currently used by Ukrainian forces. Deliveries are expected to begin in December, with hundreds to follow monthly.

The meeting also stressed the importance of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and the continued coordination of NATO’s support through its Wiesbaden-based Ukraine staff starting January 2025.

France is also set to contribute to Ukraine's drone capabilities with the delivery of Colibri project kamikaze drones, announced in October.