Ukrainian Drone Maker Boosts Output: Athlon Avia’s Combat UAVs Crucial in Ongoing Conflict
Staff Editor Ukrainian Drone Manufacturer Athlon Avia Ramps Up Production Amid Ongoing Conflict
Athlon Avia, a Ukrainian defense company specializing in drone manufacturing, has been at the forefront of the country’s efforts to bolster its military capabilities since 2014. Founded in response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the conflict in Donbas, the company has seen a significant increase in production following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
In a recent interview with Business Insider, Athlon Avia CEO Artem Vyunnyk discussed the company’s history, challenges, and future prospects. The firm has maintained a strong relationship with Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense and government through state contracts, contributing to the country’s defense infrastructure.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently announced the nation’s capability to produce 4 million drones annually, highlighting the growing importance of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare.
Athlon Avia’s main products include the A1-CM Furia drone and the ST-35 Silent Thunder loitering munition. The A1-CM Furia, a catapult-launched reconnaissance drone with a 50 km range, is primarily used for artillery fire adjustment. The ST-35 Silent Thunder, designed for precision strikes in urban areas, boasts a 60-minute flight time and a 30 km range.
The company’s extensive operational experience, with over 200 missions per day, has led to continuous product development and improvement. However, Vyunnyk noted that supporting artillery units remains a major challenge due to increasing artillery system ranges. In response, Athlon Avia is developing a larger drone to accommodate more batteries for extended flight times.
Electronic warfare systems pose another significant challenge, disrupting signals such as GPS and video transmissions. To counteract these threats, the company has developed frequency-hopping solutions, creating a dynamic challenge for both sides of the conflict.
The Ukrainian government has implemented initiatives to expedite drone procurement and delivery to the front lines, including simplified processes and increased funding. While initial struggles with state contracts were common, recent legislative changes have eased these issues.
However, the rising demand for drones has created supply chain challenges, necessitating better planning and larger stockpiles. Athlon Avia initially faced component shortages due to insufficient warehouse stocks, prompting a focus on improved supply chain management and warehouse organization.
As the conflict continues, Athlon Avia remains committed to ensuring efficient production and availability of UAVs to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
