September 18, 2024: Ukraine has shown the world how effective drones are and is now selling some of those it produces to export customers. The income from export sales to NATO countries finances continued Ukrainian production. This year Ukraine is on track to produce three million drones. These consist of armed and unarmed models of many different designs.

To deal with Russian air attacks on drone manufacturing facilities, the government encourages individuals or small groups of Ukrainians to build drones in their homes or rented commercial spaces. As a result there are over 400 locations where drones are being produced.

For traditional weapons and equipment Ukraine still needs factories producing armored and unarmored vehicles as well as artillery and small arms. This is aided by the extensive use of 3-D printing devices which in turn enables dispersed industrial production. Components for larger weapons can be manufactured at many small workshops and moved by private automobiles to the final assembly area. This use of personal vehicles was soon discovered by the Russians who now attack many cars carrying civilians, rather than weapons components. This only happens within ten or twenty kilometers of the front line. That is the range of most reconnaissance drones both sides use.

Other nations, especially NATO members, China and India have noted the drone revolution in Ukraine and are seeking to equip their own forces with drones and drone technology. This is what the Ukrainians export to countries that support them. China has to get Ukrainian-produced drones and drone tech from its ally Russia.