Ukraine Begins European Production of Jet-Powered BARS Strike Drones

Ukraine has launched the production of its BARS jet-powered strike drone in Europe, a strategic partnership with Germany aimed at bolstering defense capabilities. The latest iteration of the BARS drone features a 1,000-kilometer range and an increased payload capacity of up to 60 kilograms. The project, which utilizes AI for engineering and target guidance, is designed to enhance mission flexibility through modular configurations. By moving production to Europe, Ukraine aims to secure its supply chain against Russian strikes while leveraging German financing to ease its defense budget. The drones, which can reach speeds exceeding 700 kilometers per hour, are expected to reach the Ukrainian Defense Forces starting in October 2026. This collaboration not only provides Ukraine with advanced long-range strike capabilities but also establishes a potential model for future allied defense industrial cooperation, forcing Russian air defenses to cover a significantly wider operational area.