Shortage of Mini-Jet Engines Hinders Drone Production in Ukraine — Reuters

In Ukraine, there is a notable shortage of mini-jet engines that is significantly hindering the production of long-range strike drones. This information was reported by the international news agency Reuters, referencing sources in the Ukrainian defense industry.

According to the agency, in light of this shortage, European manufacturers specializing in the production of mini-jet engines are actively increasing their production volumes and investments. This indicates a growing demand for such engines, as they provide drones with higher speeds compared to models equipped with propeller engines and are significantly cheaper than cruise missiles. As a result, Ukraine has the capability to strike deep into Russian territory and compete with Russian Geran-5 drones.

An anonymous source in the Ukrainian defense industry noted that the shortage of mini-jet engines is likely the "main factor limiting the number of drones produced," emphasizing that this poses a serious problem for the national missile program.

Maria Popova, the operational director of the Ukrainian Defense Industry Council, confirmed the existence of a shortage of turbojet engines for drones, as well as the materials necessary for their production. She stated, "Supply issues remain both globally and, more acutely, in Ukraine." This indicates that the situation regarding engine supplies is complex and requires urgent resolution.

Mini-jet engines are manufactured from lightweight materials, such as titanium alloys, and often include parts that are 3D-printed. These engines are capable of generating sufficient thrust to transport explosive payloads over long distances, making them ideal for use in drones.

Alexander Kamyshin, an advisor to the President of Ukraine on defense industry matters, declined to comment on whether the engine shortage affects the overall situation in the defense sector. However, it is known that while Russia procures some of its engines from China, Ukraine relies on a small group of European suppliers, including the Czech company PBS, the German firm JetCat, and the Dutch company Destinus.

Reuters also reports that some Ukrainian drone manufacturers are working on developing their own engines to reduce dependence on external suppliers. However, production volumes remain limited, complicating the situation further.

On April 6, ABC News reported, citing data published by the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Russian Ministry of Defense, that for the first time since the beginning of the full-scale war, Ukraine launched more drones over Russian territory than the aggressor country did over Ukrainian territory. This indicates the increasing effectiveness of Ukrainian drones in military operations.

In February 2025, then-Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov stated that Ukraine had become the largest producer of drones in the world, claiming that 96% of the drones used are either purchased or produced in Ukraine. This underscores the importance of drones in modern military conflicts.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also noted that over 80% of enemy targets on the battlefield are destroyed by drones, most of which are of Ukrainian production. This highlights the critical role of drones in ensuring the country's defense capabilities.

In addition to fixed-wing drones, Ukraine has also developed heavy bombers of the Vampire type, naval drones that have inflicted significant losses on the Russian Black Sea Fleet, as well as interceptor drones designed to destroy Russian drones. These innovations demonstrate the ongoing development of the Ukrainian defense industry amid the war.