Dutch startup Hyllus has delivered 400 drones to Ukraine and plans to reach 10,000 per month

The Dutch company Hyllus Systems, which has already delivered almost 400 drones to Ukrainian units since October, has announced plans to scale production to 10,000 drones per month. To this end, the project plans to raise $5 million in investment, the Deondernemer reports.

The Hyllus drone range includes single-use strike models, reusable light bombers (rechargeable up to 10 times and capable of carrying up to six explosive charges or two smaller strike drones), and a new drone interceptor, which is set to be introduced next month. It can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, and climb to altitudes of up to 4,000 metres. The company’s founders believe these interceptors could be used to shoot down Shahed-type drones, although doing so at a speed of 200 km/h would be challenging.

Most components are sourced through triple sourcing, with three independent suppliers for each item (from China, Europe, and Taiwan or South Korea). The bodies are mostly 3D printed using carbon fibre.

Testing is conducted in two stages: first at Twente Airfield in the Netherlands, then in Ukraine, before the drones are handed over to units. Final assembly before deployment is carried out near the front line.

A team of 19 people across several countries is involved in the development, including former military personnel, a nuclear physicist, naval specialists, test pilots, a strategic group, and alumni of a diplomatic academy. Most work without pay, receiving shares in the company or volunteering. The founder of Hyllus Systems is Albin Sela, a native of Italy and a former project manager at Thales.

After securing investment, the company plans to increase its production facilities. Hyllus is working with partners to increase production capacities.

As a reminder, last week the Polish energy and logistics group Unimot announced its intentions to enter the defence market through investments in a new company, PZL Defence, which will specialise in the development and production of UAVs.