Zelenskyy announces fundraising for world's first naval drone fleet to protect cities and grain corridor

“On the United24 platform, fundraising for the world's first Ukrainian fleet of naval drones has begun. I am sure that millions of people will support this important direction of Ukraine's defense. Everyone has seen how it works. And this is only for our defense - we do not claim other's territories. Join in!” Zelenskyy urged. 

The President noted that these drones will help protect the water areas and peaceful cities of Ukraine from Russian missiles launched from ships. In addition, such drones will help unlock the corridor for ships with grain.

On the UNITED24 platform, it was noted that the first such naval drone hit three Russian ships at the end of October, including the Admiral Makarov, the flagship of the Russian Black Sea Fleet.

“This is the first naval attack in history that was carried out exclusively by unmanned means. As a result of the audacious operation, Russia lost its undeniable advantage on the water. The killers of peaceful Ukrainians - warships with missiles on board - became targets themselves,” the message says.

The platform's administration emphasized that multipurpose unmanned surface vehicles are a unique Ukrainian development. The first task of the collection is to form a fleet of one hundred such drones.

“Our first task is to form a fleet of a hundred such boats. It will protect the waters of our seas, prevent ships with missiles from leaving the bay, will be able to protect merchant ships and carry out secret missions. Drones can participate in long-range reconnaissance, surveillance of coastal activity, escort and support of the traditional fleet, convoying of merchant ships, correction of missile attacks and artillery, protecting our bases and countering amphibious operations,” the organizers explained.

The length of such a drone is 5.5 m, and the weight is up to 1000 kg. The range of the drone is up to 400 km.

The cost of one drone is UAH 10 million. On the UNITED24 website, it is noted that it includes not only the device itself, but also a ground autonomous control station, a transportation and storage system, as well as a data processing center.

At the same time, a person who donates UAH 10 million will be able to name one of the drones.

You can join the fundraiser at the link.