Prospects and features of UAV production development in Ukraine

Abstract

This article explores the current state and prospects of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production sector in Ukraine under martial law and the transformation of the defense-industrial complex. The study focuses on managerial, economic, organizational-technological, and institutional aspects of the UAV market, as well as the potential for building an innovation ecosystem in this sector. The purpose of the research is to identify trends, problems, and strategic directions for the development of the Ukrainian UAV industry, considering its critical role in national security and the economy. The methodology includes secondary data analysis, content analysis of analytical and statistical reports, Porter’s Diamond Model, and comparative assessment of Ukrainian UAV characteristics versus foreign analogues. Results: The study identifies key factors of competitiveness, such as increasing demand from the Armed Forces, availability of highly qualified specialists, development of innovative startups, and the need to localize critical components. The research systematizes the main market participants and their specialization and reveals the prerequisites for creating a sustainable innovation ecosystem involving business, science, and the state. The findings serve as a basis for forming government policy to support the industry, for strategic planning of enterprises operating in the UAV sector, and for academic research in unmanned technologies and security. The conclusion states that the Ukrainian UAV industry shows strong development potential but requires institutional strengthening, R&D investment, and active involvement in global markets.