Ex-Ukraine Defence Chief Offers US a ‘Drone Army’ for Patriots

Ukraine’s former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has offered to help the United States build a powerful drone force in return for Patriot interceptor missiles, saying the weapons are vital for Ukraine’s survival through the winter.

The proposal comes as Kyiv faces continued pressure over air defences and the future course of the war with Russia.

Fedorov puts Patriots at the centre of the deal

Fedorov told the Financial Times he would be “very happy” to help Washington create a drone army, particularly in exchange for Patriot interceptors.

He argued the missiles are urgently needed to protect Ukraine through the coming winter. Fedorov declined to comment on a possible meeting in Washington with representatives of the Trump administration.

Kyiv’s battlefield expertise becomes the bargaining chip

The former minister is also seeking to expand Ukraine’s defence-tech partnerships abroad. After agreeing to become an adviser to Italy’s defence minister, he said he hoped to secure similar roles in other partner countries, potentially including France and the US.

His pitch is built around Ukraine’s hard-won experience of modern warfare, particularly the rapid development and deployment of drones and other battlefield technologies.

US investment targeted for a new weapons push

Fedorov is meanwhile discussing American investment in a defence technology fund designed to create and manage companies developing new weapons.

Potential investors include venture capitalists, private individuals and US technology companies. Fedorov says Russia could drag the war on for another two to three years, making faster development of advanced battlefield technology increasingly important.

The former minister is building a new role overseas

Fedorov has separately taken on an advisory role with Italy’s defence minister, focusing on digitalisation and defence technology projects.

His departure from Ukraine’s government has not ended his political involvement. He previously said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should explain what he knew about corruption allegations involving his inner circle, while reports said Fedorov rejected four offers to remain part of the president’s team.

Ex-Ukrainian defense chief offers US drone army in exchange for Patriot missiles