German Drone Manufacturer Quantum Systems to Double Production in Ukraine
Quantum Systems, a German drone manufacturer, has announced plans to double its production capacity in Ukraine by 2025. This expansion is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to support Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, which began with the invasion in 2022.
The company, which has been supplying drones to Ukraine since the onset of the conflict, has already established two facilities in the country. Quantum Systems produces several uncrewed aerial systems for Kyiv, including the “Vector” and “Trinity” drones, with Ukraine having ordered hundreds of these systems since the invasion began.
The Vector drone, used for target identification and surveillance, boasts impressive capabilities. It can fly for up to 180 minutes, stream real-time video over a range of 35 kilometers, and feature vertical take-off and landing. Weighing 18 pounds, it also includes on-board AI.
Trinity drones, on the other hand, are primarily used for mapping and surveying. These drones can cover 700 hectares in one flight and remain airborne for 90 minutes. Equipped with multi-spectral cameras and LiDAR scanners, they prove useful for environmental assessments, battle damage assessments, and infrastructure mapping.
Founded in 2015, Quantum Systems has raised over $200 million, with notable investor Peter Thiel participating in a financing round in 2022 alongside Project A and Sanno Capital. Thiel emphasized the importance of integrating software and hardware for future UAS development.
CEO Florian Seibel described the company’s strategy as a “Tesla approach,” focusing on comprehensive control over hardware, manufacturing, and data services.
The expansion comes at a time when drones have become crucial in the Ukraine conflict, enhancing surveillance and providing standoff weapon capabilities. In response to this, Ukraine has increased both domestic drone production and imports.
Recently, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the creation of a dedicated branch for uncrewed systems in the armed forces. Additionally, the defense ministry has allocated an extra UAH 2.5 billion monthly for drone procurement to ensure brigades are equipped with the necessary technology.
As the conflict continues, Quantum Systems’ expanded production capacity is likely to play a significant role in Ukraine’s defense strategy.
