The Czech company U&C UAS, which manufactures battle-tested drones developed by Ukrainian company Deviro, has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Army. As a result, it will become a supplier of reconnaissance UAVs for U.S. operations in Europe.
The decision followed U.S. military evaluations of the drones during exercises simulating modern high-intensity battlefield conditions. The platform reportedly demonstrated reliability and effectiveness in modern mission scenarios.
Read more: Turkish Baykar Expands European Cooperation With Strategic Safran Deal, ITAR-Free Euroflir to Equip TB2 for Global Markets
Drones from U&C UAS are set to play a key role in strengthening the security of U.S. military bases across the European continent. They will be deployed on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
From Defense Express we would like to note that the specific UAVs were not disclosed, though the company's catalog includes two models in this category. Both are based on Ukrainian experience, but are Czech developments.
One of them is the Stork LR (Leleka LR), which offers a communication range of up to 135 km and an endurance of up to five hours. It is equipped with a day and night surveillance module, and its takeoff weight is 14 kg. It is known to be supplied to the Ukrainian military and manufactured in the Czech Republic.
Another option is the Stork 1000, which has a takeoff weight of 23.5 kg, can remain airborne for up to eight hours, and has a communication range of up to 75 km. In addition to day and night operation modules, it also features a separate thermal imaging module.
The photo in the company's press release about the contract shows the Stork LR. Therefore, it is likely that the U.S. Army is purchasing these UAVs.
Overall, this is positive news, as Ukrainian UAVs are being adopted by the U.S. military, demonstrating their effectiveness and potentially opening the door to future exports. However, it is important to note that production is taking place in the Czech Republic, partly due to Ukrainian restrictions on weapons exports.
Read more: Canada Considers Defense Cooperation With Turkiye, Wants to Buy MALE-Class Drones From Ankara, Future Joint Weapons Projects Under Review
