U.S. Drone Manufacturing Investment is Critical

Balancing Concerns Over Chinese Tech With Investment in U.S. Innovation

News and Opinion.

Ukraine’s defense industry has shown that scaling drone production rapidly is possible, even in the toughest circumstances. During the Second International Defense Industries Forum, President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed Ukraine is producing over 4 million drones annually, with more than 1.5 million already contracted. This success highlights how nations can quickly ramp up drone manufacturing, offering valuable insights for the U.S. industry as it faces its own challenges.

In the U.S., lawmakers are focusing on reducing reliance on Chinese-made drones due to concerns over security and potential supply chain disruptions. However, many U.S. drone users worry that domestic options are more expensive and sometimes lack the functionality of Chinese products. To address both security concerns and user needs, lawmakers should balance limitation on foreign drone technology with investment in U.S. drone manufacturing to drive innovation, lower prices, and enhance competitiveness.

Ukraine’s Defense Industry: A Model for Expansion

Despite being in the midst of a full-scale war, Ukraine has transformed its defense industry. President Zelensky noted that Ukraine produced “25 times more artillery and mortar ammunition than in the entire year of 2022.” This growth extends to drones, including advanced missile-drones like the “Palianytsia” and naval drones. Ukraine’s rapid expansion shows that with focus and investment, manufacturing capacity can be built quickly, even under extreme conditions.

The two countries are not the same.  Ukraine’s manufacturing model cannot be replicated exactly in an entirely different economy.  However, Ukraine’s success still provides a valuable example for the US. With focus, flexibility and government investment, growth can be achieved more quickly.

Balancing Security and User Needs

While U.S. lawmakers focus on reducing dependence on Chinese drones, users are concerned about the higher costs and reduced functionality of domestic alternatives. This situation underscores the need for a balanced approach—one that addresses security risks while supporting U.S. manufacturers to quickly develop affordable, innovative, and competitive drone technology – not only for military use, but also for law enforcement and commercial users.

Strategic investment in U.S. drone companies will help reduce reliance on foreign products while fostering competition and innovation. This will lead to more affordable and capable options for U.S. users, making domestic drones more attractive both locally and globally.

Lessons for the U.S. Drone Industry

Ukraine’s achievement of producing 4 million drones annually demonstrates what’s possible with concentrated effort and investment. With strategic investment, the U.S. drone industry can similarly scale up at speed. This will not only address national security concerns but also create jobs, drive innovation, and make the U.S. more competitive in the global drone market.

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