Licensed release of anti-UAV systems and own drone the production: Ukraine’s AirUnit plans to expand its business profile

Our country critically lacks tactical-level drones – the demand is estimated at 24,000 units of such vehicles, according to expert estimates. Therefore, it is crucial for Ukraine to have its own manufacturers. AirUnit is preparing to join them: they have started forming a separate IT team and are developing a production plan.

AirUnit began its journey in 2020 as a supplier of equipment from DJI, Autel, Aaronia AG, EcoFlow, and other drone and power station manufacturers. Even then, the management had accumulated significant experience in configuring, servicing, and operating unmanned aerial vehicles. All of this proved invaluable from the first days of the full-scale russian invasion.

Andriy Shtepa, co-founder of AirUnit:

"Since February 24th, we have been receiving requests for equipment and consultations from various agencies. Among them were special forces, intelligence, the National Guard, rescue services, state security, and more. So, we mobilised all available resources to fulfil the tasks of our defenders!"

In just the first month, AirUnit delivered hundreds of DJI drones and 7 countermeasures systems from Aaronia AG, which allow tracking radio-electronic oscillations and detecting enemy drones. Additionally, the company was one of the first to establish the production of drone payload release systems. The team also actively supported volunteers – for example, during blackouts, they donated 200 Jackery charging stations for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and charitable foundations. The total value of the equipment transferred during this time exceeded several million hryvnias.

Andriy Shtepa, co-founder of AirUnit:

"We're doing all this not for anyone in particular but for the country. For example, personally, I don't plan to leave from here; I want to stay in a free country. So, our team will definitely participate in the further reconstruction of Ukraine!"

During these 16 months, AirUnit has been actively developing. The staff has grown from 3 to 30 people, on the one hand, and a full-fledged sales department has been created within the structure. All employees are experienced experts who not only sell products but also assist in solving specific client tasks. On the other hand, the team has gained new experience. Andriy Shtepa, in particular, visited various points on the front line in 2022, including Bakhmut and Popasna. There, he was able to share knowledge about drone management and maintenance and learn more about the use of this technology in combat conditions. This became the basis for developing a 6-day course on UAV operations, where actual military tasks are practised.

Andriy Shtepa, co-founder of AirUnit:

"We provide a solid basis, and our graduates are already becoming instructors in their units! They pass on the skills they acquired from us to other recruits. This is inspiring because it shows that our knowledge truly brings value!"

Drone piloting training is organised at the highest level. To achieve this, AirUnit has established a training centre and secured the use of three training grounds around Kyiv. Since its inception, over 1000 military personnel have completed this training course, with most sessions being offered free of charge. And all of this, as assured by AirUnit, is just the beginning.

Andriy Shtepa, co-founder of AirUnit:

"We always strive to move forward, so we already have several exciting projects in the works. For instance, we are currently working on a program to develop our own FPV drones and establish a large-scale assembly line for EW and ECM systems. Our company is finalising process automation and forming an IT team that will develop software products for the creation, management, and production of UAVs."

The demand for EW and ECM equipment increases with the number of UAVs used by the enemy, especially as the aggressor, like us, improves its capabilities. Therefore, we need comprehensive systems that have the potential to participate in this 'race'. German company Aaronia AG manufactures products that far surpass the technologies available to the russians and can adapt to changes in radio frequency ranges and UAV operation protocols. The dynamic nature of events requires the ability to quickly adjust to the operational environment, which Aaronia AG can provide. However, the price of this equipment is very high. But through in-house large-scale assembly within our country, AirUnit will reduce the cost of solutions for end-users and provide access to cutting-edge technologies in Ukraine. Thus, it is a significant step towards a peaceful future and a faster Victory.