Germany to deliver 4,000 AI-controlled drones to Ukraine amid renewed weapons debate

Germany has announced plans to provide Ukraine with 4,000 advanced AI-driven drones, bolstering Kyiv’s military capabilities as the war with Russia continues.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius revealed that the drones, informally called "Mini-Taurus," are designed to "neutralize or evade enemy electronic drone defences." These drones can strike targets located 30 to 40 kilometres behind enemy lines, focusing on command posts, logistical hubs, and other strategic objectives, Caliber.Az reports via German media.

The drones, reportedly four times more effective in range compared to the standard kamikaze drones currently used by the Ukrainian army, are part of a broader effort to support Ukraine without escalating the conflict. Developed by the German software company Helsing, the project was formalized in September through a contract with Ukraine's defence ministry. Funding for the delivery comes from the German government's capability enhancement initiative.

The decision to supply these AI-driven weapons comes amid renewed debate over Germany’s stance on supplying Taurus cruise missiles. The US recently authorized Ukraine to use longer-range weapons, lifting certain restrictions on ATACMS missiles to allow strikes deeper into Russian-controlled territory. This decision has reignited calls within Germany to deliver the Taurus missiles, which have a range of 500 kilometres, significantly further than the 300 kilometres offered by ATACMS.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz, however, reiterated his refusal to provide the Taurus missiles, citing concerns over escalating the conflict with Russia. Using these missiles would require Germany to take on "shared responsibility" for controlling the weapons, which Scholz said he "cannot and will not take responsibility for." Defense Minister Pistorius echoed this sentiment, noting that the US decision "does not currently change our assessment" regarding the Taurus system.

Despite this, political pressure is mounting within Germany. Members of the Greens and the FDP, key partners in the governing coalition, have called for a shift in policy. Green defence expert Sara Nanni and FDP deputy parliamentary leader Michael Link have both argued that delivering the Taurus missiles would allow Ukraine to target Russian supply lines and missile positions better. Opposition voices, such as CDU defence expert Johann Wadephul, also criticized Scholz for not aligning with the US approach.

The introduction of AI-driven drones, however, highlights Germany’s continued support for Ukraine through alternative military aid. Pistorius described the drones as "a vital additional asset for Ukrainian forces," demonstrating Berlin’s commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defence capabilities without directly escalating the conflict.

By Vugar Khalilov