Germany ramps up drone production for Ukraine

Germany begins mass production of Gereon ground drones for Ukraine (ARX Robotics Press Office)© RBC-Ukraine (UK)

Germany is set to begin industrial-scale production of advanced unmanned ground vehicles for Ukraine, with the first systems expected to reach the battlefield by the end of the summer. The move marks another expansion of European defence manufacturing as Kyiv seeks to strengthen its frontline capabilities against Russia.

German firms DEUTZ and ARX Robotics say production of the Gereon unmanned ground system will begin within weeks at a new facility in Ulm, under a strategic partnership designed to accelerate deliveries.

Factories shift into high gear

DEUTZ said its Ulm plant is being prepared for mass production to meet Ukraine's operational requirements. The company expects the first Gereon systems built at the facility to be delivered before the end of the summer.

Marco Herre, chief executive of DEUTZ's Defence business unit, said the partnership with ARX Robotics would strengthen European defence while supporting Ukraine's military needs.

High-tech systems built for modern warfare

Munich-based ARX Robotics specialises in software-controlled unmanned ground vehicles designed for defence operations. The partnership, launched in October 2025, combines ARX's autonomous technology with DEUTZ's expertise in propulsion systems.

Initially, the drones will use battery-powered electric drives, with plans to introduce compact combustion engines and hybrid powertrains in future versions. The companies also intend to integrate ARX Robotics' AI-powered Mithra OS software with DEUTZ's propulsion technology.

Europe expands defence cooperation

The announcement reflects a wider push across Europe to increase defence production as the war in Ukraine continues to reshape security priorities.

Alongside the drone programme, Ukraine and Germany are also working on a joint air defence project aimed at strengthening Europe's ability to intercept ballistic missiles. If successful, the initiative would address a capability gap that currently exists across much of the continent.

Support for Kyiv gathers pace

The Gereon programme underlines Germany's growing role in supplying advanced military technology to Ukraine while expanding its own defence industrial base.

With production moving from development to factory scale, the project is intended to deliver equipment more quickly as European governments continue investing in long-term military support for Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Germany launches mass production of Gereon ground drones for Ukraine