Drone Manufacturer General Cherry and Croatian Company ORQA to Build Underground Component Production Plant
A new phase in military technology development is underway in Ukraine as General Cherry, a drone interceptor manufacturer, partners with Croatian company ORQA to construct an underground factory for drone component production.
In Ukraine, a new phase in the development of military technologies is beginning: General Cherry, a company specializing in the production of interceptor drones, in partnership with Croatian company ORQA, the largest manufacturer of unmanned aerial vehicles in Europe, is starting the construction of an underground factory for the production of drone components. This project is being implemented under the 'Build in Ukraine' program and includes the parallel launch of serial production in Croatia.
This agreement represents another step in the collaboration between Ukrainian military technology manufacturers and Western defense companies. In a press release sent to journalists, General Cherry did not disclose details regarding the construction of the factory but announced this information in a post on Facebook. At the same time, the parties signed a memorandum of cooperation, as noted by General Cherry in its press release. The main goal of the agreement is the development and production of interceptor drones, components, and other C-UAV systems.
In a joint statement, the companies indicated that 'the ultimate goal is the complete localization of component production in Ukraine,' which will help reduce dependence on 'foreign' suppliers. 'ORQA's products are made without the use of Chinese components,' the press release from General Cherry states.
General Cherry was founded in September 2023 and focuses on the production of first-person view (FPV) drones, including interceptor models and fiber optics, supplying its products to military units, volunteer organizations, regional military administrations, and state customers. According to information published on DOU, the company generated revenue of 657 million hryvnias (approximately $15.1 million) in 2024, with about one-third coming from government procurement.
On the other hand, ORQA produces components and integrated systems for clients in over 50 countries worldwide, including 24 NATO member states, as noted in the press release. This project underscores the importance of developing military technologies in Ukraine and strengthening cooperation with international partners in the face of modern challenges.
Olena Hrazhdan is a business journalist at Kyiv Post, who closely follows developments in the defense and technology sectors in Ukraine.