Berlin weighs purchase of Ukrainian jet drones
Germany is discussing a possible purchase of Bars jet-powered drones from Ukraine, a German official said. The drone can fly up to 1,000 kilometers and reach roughly 700 kilometers per hour, and Ukraine reportedly launches about 2,000 of them each month against Russian energy targets. The talks fit Berlin’s broader plan to acquire large quantities of deep-strike weapons from European defense firms.
Berlin’s talks with Kyiv concern a jet-propelled drone called Bars, according to a German official cited on Oct. 24. The system reportedly covers 1,000 kilometers and flies near 700 kilometers per hour; its maker is withheld for security. Ukraine is said to fire roughly 2,000 monthly at Russian energy sites, including refineries and power infrastructure.
A July 2026 production arrangement under Build with Ukraine would have Germany fund output while the weapons go to Ukrainian forces. Zelensky has described Bars as a strong counter to Russian jet drones. Germany is also seeking thousands of European-made deep-strike arms, as its military currently fields only Taurus cruise missiles and faces possible long U.S. delivery waits.
The talks could reshape European defense procurement by normalizing purchases of Ukrainian-designed deep-strike drones, affecting German taxpayers, arms firms, and Ukraine’s defense sector. If production expands, Ukrainian forces may gain more long-range options, while Russian energy infrastructure and nearby communities could face continued risk. Closer German-Ukrainian joint ventures may also deepen technology ties and create jobs, though oversight and escalation concerns may accompany the shift.