German DefenceTech firms deepen Ukraine ties during Merz's Kyiv visit

Two German defence technology companies used Chancellor Friedrich Merz's weekend visit to Kyiv to strengthen their presence in Ukraine, according to EU-Startups and Tech.eu.

Munich-based Quantum Systems is set to supply several tens of thousands of interceptor drones to Ukraine, financed by Germany as part of its military assistance package for the winter of 2026/2027. The systems will be produced in Ukraine, expanding manufacturing of interceptors that are already in operational use.

Quantum Systems develops unmanned aerial systems and multi-sensor data collection technology for defence, government and commercial customers, including electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) platforms. In March, the company invested in Ukrainian manufacturer WIY Drones, which builds interceptor, reconnaissance and strike UAVs along with ground control stations. According to Tech.eu, the interceptor drones were developed by the Ukrainian team at Quantum WIY Industries to defend cities, civilian facilities and critical infrastructure from drone attacks, and integrate with Quantum Systems' MOSAIC UXS software suite. Tech.eu reported that the programme responds to an evolving aerial threat, including faster, jet-powered Russian attack drones.