New European manufacturing and sales hub to enhance local production and meet growing demand
DroneShield Invests in European Growth
Australian counter-drone technology company DroneShield has announced a major expansion into Europe. The company will establish its first overseas manufacturing and assembly facility to support growing demand and align with regional defense initiatives like the ReArm Europe Plan and Readiness 2030.
The expansion includes a new European sales hub and a second manufacturing line for select hardware. DroneShield aims to achieve at least 65% European-based industry content in some products sold in the region.
“Europe is currently one of DroneShield’s largest geographical segments, with over A$500m across dozens of opportunities,” the company stated. A local production footprint will help DroneShield qualify for more contracts under European defense programs.
Support for Ukraine and Regional Security
DroneShield’s systems have played a major role in Ukraine’s defense against Russian drone attacks. The company recently completed an A$8.2 million order for a major European military customer. The deal included dismounted and vehicle-mounted counter-UxS (uncrewed systems) solutions.
“We haven’t only supplied technology in Ukraine, we’re in ongoing discussions with frontline soldiers through our new Sydney headquarters, updating their devices to counter new Russian drone attacks,” said CEO Oleg Vornik.
He added, “This battleground has become ever more important to our European allies as they rapidly expand their defence capabilities. That defence must be centred around the modern threats of warfare which we’re engaged with daily, even using AI to significantly advance counterdrone capabilities by accurately identifying, tracking, and classing drones.”
Building a European Supply Chain
DroneShield says the new European supply chain will strengthen sovereign defense capability in the region. Its Australian software team will continue to develop AI-powered tools to counter emerging drone threats worldwide.
The company is also hiring more counter-drone experts for its European team. In parallel, it will expand assembly facilities in Australia to support both domestic and allied defense efforts.
Australia’s Role in Global Defense
In 2024, 91% of DroneShield’s Australian production was exported, showing strong international demand. This performance supports Australia’s broader manufacturing goals under its Future Made in Australia plan.
“Australia’s national defence spend is expected to double over the next decade to $100 billion in FY34,” said Vornik. “DroneShield continues to invest in providing leading-edge sovereign capabilities for Australia’s interests while ensuring we are equipped to meet demand from our nation’s allies across the globe.”
About DroneShield
DroneShield (ASX: DRO) develops artificial intelligence-based solutions to detect and counter drones and autonomous systems. Its products support military, government, and infrastructure customers worldwide across land, sea, and air.
More information: www.droneshield.com
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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Will local European production give DroneShield a competitive edge in the counter-drone market? 🛡️ #SecurityTech