Media: US, Ukraine draft deal to expand joint drone production

The United States and Ukraine have prepared a draft memorandum outlining the framework for a potential new defence agreement that would deepen military-industrial cooperation between the two countries, according to three sources familiar with the discussions speaking to CBS News.

The draft, developed by the U.S. State Department together with Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. Olha Stefanishyna, is described as an initial step toward a broader deal that could allow Ukraine to export certain military technologies to the United States and establish joint ventures with American companies to manufacture drones.

Ukrainian officials told CBS News that expanded cooperation in drone production would benefit both sides, with U.S. financing expected to help increase overall defence manufacturing capacity.

Ukraine’s National Security Council estimates the country’s defence production capacity could reach $55 billion in 2026. However, officials say external funding will be required to reach that level, as Kyiv currently has resources to purchase around $15 billion worth of weapons this year, according to Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine’s Ministry of Strategic Industries.

Ukraine has also positioned itself as a major producer of low-cost drones. One manufacturer reportedly plans to produce more than 3 million first-person-view combat drones in 2026, compared to about 300,000 produced by the United States in 2025.

“Nearly 20 countries are currently involved at various stages: four agreements have already been signed, and the first contracts are being prepared within those agreements. Preparatory procedures are continuing with other countries for political arrangements that will open the way for business cooperation,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said earlier.

Over the past two months, Ukraine has also signed defence agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, with additional partnerships reportedly under negotiation.

By Sabina Mammadli