NSDC Expands Drone Deal: 9 Agreements Signed and Global Scaling in 2026

During a recent briefing for the defence industry, the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine confirmed the rapid expansion of the Drone Deal initiative. The program has evolved into a cornerstone of Ukraine’s security architecture, allowing domestic manufacturers to leverage combat-proven technologies while fostering deep industrial integration with international partners.

Key Figures and Facts

• Nine intergovernmental Drone Deal agreements are now signed, including partnerships with the European Commission and key Middle Eastern and Baltic states.
• Over 20 countries are currently in active negotiations to join the framework by the end of 2026.
• Each agreement is concluded for a 10-year term, encompassing mutual investments, technology exchange, and production localization.
• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to update the 'white list' of partner states eligible for the simplified procedure on a quarterly basis.

Strategic Evolution: Localization and Autonomy

A critical shift in 2026 is the focus on supply chain resilience. The NSDC has emphasized that a significant portion of Ukrainian-manufactured defense tech now utilizes non-Chinese components, enhancing the exportability of these systems to NATO-aligned markets. The 'Build with Ukraine' and 'Build in Ukraine' models are now the primary vehicles for scaling production, allowing foreign partners to integrate Ukrainian combat experience directly into their own industrial bases.

Four Pillars of the Drone Deal

The initiative encompasses four main pillars: expert security assistance (consultations provided by Ukrainian military personnel in partner countries), direct export of combat solutions, production localization via 'Build with Ukraine' and 'Build in Ukraine' formats, and joint high-tech projects. For manufacturers, this creates multiple parallel monetization models ranging from direct sales to the establishment of joint ventures.

The wider the circle of partner countries, the more markets become accessible via the simplified procedure. However, every collaboration model—be it export, licensing, or localization—requires a distinct legal structure.

Selecting Your Market Entry Model

Global Miltech Legal assists manufacturers in selecting the optimal operational format within the Drone Deal framework: direct export via Fast Track, technology transfer without the alienation of IP rights, or the structuring of joint production with foreign partners. Contact us to review your case and obtain a free initial assessment of your proposed operational scheme.