Estonian defense firm Frankenburg Technologies is gearing up to test its cutting-edge anti-drone missiles in Ukraine, with trials slated to begin in 2025. The company, a leading innovator in European defense technology, has developed missiles specifically designed to intercept Iranian-made Shahed drones at altitudes of up to two kilometers.
A key differentiator of the system is its artificial intelligence, enabling autonomous targeting capabilities. “The technology is promising, and we will start testing it in Ukraine in the new year,” Kusti Salm, CEO of Frankenburg Technologies, told ERR.
Initial production is expected to reach a few dozen units per week, with plans to ramp up to hundreds by the third quarter of 2025. The missile tests aim to validate the system’s effectiveness in real-world combat scenarios.
the move comes as Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasizes the importance of bolstering Ukraine’s military production capabilities. Speaking at the Halifax International Security Forum,Pevkur told The Hill,”Ukrainians can handle all of this when we deliver everything they need to fight Russia.”
The need for effective anti-drone defenses is underscored by Russia’s escalating use of Shahed-type kamikaze drones against Ukraine. According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Moscow deployed 2,576 drones in November, a significant increase from the 2,023 deployed in October.
This surge in drone attacks follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proclamation in September of plans to increase drone production nearly tenfold, signaling a continued barrage of nightly assaults on Ukraine.
Frankenburg Technologies’ anti-drone missile system represents a potential game-changer in Ukraine’s defense against these increasingly prevalent threats.
Russia’s fall offensive cost more than 50 soldiers per square kilometer,ISW says
November marked the fifth consecutive month of rising Russian casualties,with an estimated total of 45,690 soldiers lost during the month.
Kyiv, Ukraine – in a significant development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced the dismissal of Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov. This move comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the ministry’s handling of wartime procurement contracts.
“Oleksii Reznikov has been dismissed from the post of Minister of Defense,” Zelenskyy stated in his nightly address on Sunday. He expressed gratitude for Reznikov’s service, notably his role in securing international military aid during the early stages of the Russian invasion.
“I believe that the Ministry of Defense needs new approaches and other formats of interaction with both the military and society at large,” Zelenskyy added.
Reznikov, who had held the position since November 2021, has faced mounting pressure in recent weeks due to allegations of corruption within the ministry. These allegations centered around the procurement of military supplies, raising concerns about openness and accountability.
“I am grateful to the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, for the trust and the chance to serve as Minister of Defense during this arduous time for our country,” Reznikov said in a statement posted on social media.“I am proud of the achievements of the Ministry of Defense team and the Ukrainian Armed Forces.”
Zelenskyy has nominated Rustem Umerov, a Crimean Tatar politician and former head of the State Property Fund, as Reznikov’s replacement. umerov’s nomination requires approval from the Ukrainian parliament.
This leadership change within the Ukrainian defense establishment comes at a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The war has entered its 19th month, with intense fighting continuing in eastern and southern Ukraine.
The dismissal of Reznikov underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in maintaining transparency and accountability within its government institutions, particularly during wartime. The appointment of Umerov, a figure known for his reformist stance, signals Zelenskyy’s commitment to addressing these concerns and ensuring the effectiveness of Ukraine’s defense apparatus.
## Estonian Anti-Drone Missiles to be Tested in Ukraine Battlefield: An Expert Interview
**World Today News** talks to Colonel (Ret.) Andrew Wilson, former NATO strategist and leading expert on drone warfare, about the potential impact of Frankenburg Technologies’ anti-drone missiles in Ukraine.
**WTN:** colonel Wilson, Estonian defense firm Frankenburg Technologies is set to test its cutting-edge anti-drone missiles in Ukraine in early 2025. How significant is this development in the context of Ukraine’s ongoing defense against Russia’s drone attacks?
**Wilson:** This is a possibly significant development.The increasing use of Iranian-made Shahed drones by Russia poses a serious threat to Ukraine’s critical infrastructure and civilian population.
Effective counter-drone measures are crucial for Ukraine to maintain its defenses and protect its people. Frankenburg’s system,wiht its AI-powered autonomous targeting capabilities,could provide a vital edge in this critical domain.
**WTN:** The company claims their missiles can intercept Shahed drones at altitudes of up to two kilometers. How does this compare to existing counter-drone systems currently being used by ukraine?
**Wilson:** While Ukraine has acquired several anti-drone systems from its allies, many are focused on lower-altitude threats. frankenburg’s ability to engage targets at higher altitudes could be a game-changer, as it would allow for interception of drones approaching from further distances and different angles.
**WTN:** We’ve seen a dramatic increase in Russian drone attacks in recent months. How crucial is it for Ukraine to have access to advanced counter-drone technology like frankenburg’s missile system?
**Wilson:** The escalation in drone strikes underscores the urgent need for Ukraine to enhance its defense capabilities.
These attacks are not only causing significant damage to infrastructure but also placing immense psychological pressure on the Ukrainian population.
Access to advanced counter-drone technology like Frankenburg’s system is critical for Ukraine to effectively counter these threats and ensure its continued ability to resist Russian aggression.
**WTN:** With initial production expected to be limited, how quickly do you think Frankenburg’s system could make a tangible impact on the battlefield?
**wilson:** Even a limited deployment of these missiles could have a significant impact.
It would demonstrate to Russia the evolving capabilities of Ukrainian defenses and potentially deter further drone attacks.
As production ramps up, the system could play an increasingly important role in protecting Ukraine’s skies.
**WTN:** Do you think this move by Frankenburg Technologies signals a growing trend of private firms playing a more active role in supporting Ukraine’s war effort?
**Wilson:** Yes, I believe this is part of a broader trend.
The war in Ukraine has highlighted the rapid pace of technological advancement in the defense sector.
Private companies are innovating and developing new technologies at an impressive rate, and their willingness to bring these technologies to the battlefield is playing a crucial role in supporting Ukraine’s defense.
**WTN:** Thank you for your expert insights, Colonel Wilson.
**Wilson:** You’re welcome. it’s important to continue highlighting the ongoing challenges and advancements in this conflict.
