Kyiv invites global arms makers to trial cutting-edge tech against Russia

Ukraine will allow international arms manufacturers to test their latest military technologies directly on the battlefield as part of a new initiative aimed at strengthening its defence against Russia’s ongoing invasion.

The state-backed defence innovation platform, Brave1, announced the launch of the “Test in Ukraine” programme on July 17, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The scheme invites foreign companies to send new weapon systems to Ukraine, offer remote training on their use, and then receive frontline performance feedback from Ukrainian forces.

“It gives us understanding of what technologies are available. It gives companies understanding of what is really working on the front line,” said Artem Moroz, Brave1’s head of investor relations at a defence conference in Wiesbaden, Germany.

While Moroz confirmed strong interest in the initiative, he declined to disclose the names of participating firms or specifics regarding operational procedures or potential costs.

Now in its fourth year, Russia’s invasion has seen intense fighting along a vast 1,000 km front line, with Moscow ramping up air attacks on Ukrainian cities. In response, Kyiv is increasingly turning to its growing defence sector, supported by foreign partnerships, to counter Russia’s superior firepower.

Established in 2023, Brave1 serves as an online hub where domestic defence startups can attract investment and Ukrainian military units can request equipment. The platform has also compiled a list of priority technologies it aims to trial.

“We have a list of priorities. One of the top of those would be air defence, like new air defence capabilities, drone interceptors, AI-guided systems, all the solutions against gliding bombs,” said Moroz.

Ukraine is also seeking innovations in maritime unmanned systems, electronic warfare tools, and AI-enabled targeting systems to enhance artillery precision.

By Aghakazim Guliyev