DPA launches first open tender for mid-strike drones

The Defence Procurement Agency has announced its first open competitive tender for the procurement of mid-strike drones and reconnaissance-strike unmanned systems. This marks the first procurement of unmanned systems on such a scale conducted through an open, competitive process.

All Ukrainian manufacturers whose products meet the specified technical criteria are eligible to participate in the tender. For the first time, the procurement will be based strictly on tactical and technical characteristics rather than specific product names.

Details regarding participation have been published on the Agency’s website. Manufacturers applying for the first time must undergo a verification process. Those previously verified by the Agency will automatically receive commercial proposal requests. The entire procedure will be conducted within a secure environment to protect participants and safeguard sensitive information.

The Agency also noted that over the past six months, the frequency of drone strikes executed at the operational depth of the front has increased nearly tenfold. According to the Agency, drones in this category are deployed to strike logistical hubs, ammunition depots, command posts, military hardware, and other high-value targets.

The Defence Procurement Agency has already successfully applied a similar approach to the procurement of long-range 155 mm ammunition, achieving savings of over 16%. The Agency intends to transition the procurement of other unmanned system categories to competitive tender procedures, including deep-strike, FPV, and other UAV types.

Earlier, Defender Media reported on advance payments for drone manufacturers, which allow up to 70% in advance if the average delivery period does not exceed 30 calendar days.