Ukraine is set to receive funding from Germany exceeding 100 million euros for the production of advanced strike drones, the AN-196 model, capable of hitting targets over 1000 kilometers away.

This information comes from Spiegel, citing its own sources.

Ukraine to Manufacture Hundreds of AN-196 Drones

According to sources, the German government plans to invest a substantial amount in the production of Ukrainian combat drones, with the investment amounting to hundreds of millions of euros.

This funding will specifically be directed towards the creation of the AN-196 strike UAVs.

The drones are designed to engage targets deep within enemy territory, equipped with a warhead and capable of traveling up to 2000 kilometers.

With the support from Germany, Ukraine expects to produce several hundred of these military drones.

This initiative aligns with the broader strategy of the European Union to integrate Ukraine's defense industry, leveraging its unique experience gained from the war with Russia, particularly in drone production.

According to sources, further investments from other partner nations will significantly bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.

What is known about the AN-196?

«Lutiy» — is a Ukrainian kamikaze strike drone designed for long-range target engagement.

The state concern «Ukroboronprom» announced its development in October 2022, stating plans to create a UAV with a warhead of 75 kg, a total weight exceeding 200 kg, and a long flight range.

The production of the first serial batch of these drones was completed in August 2023.

It is believed that one of the first combat uses of «Lutiy» occurred on August 28, 2023, when the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine attacked the base of the 126th Coastal Defense Brigade of the Russian Black Sea Fleet located in occupied Crimea.