Cyprus Drones Arm Ukraine's Fight

Cyprus, a small EU member, is emerging as a key player in drone manufacturing, with over 200 of its H-10 Poseidon drones reportedly aiding Ukrainian artillery. Swarmly, the manufacturer, has amassed more than 100,000 flight hours for these drones over three years. The company's facility in Cyprus also exports uncrewed aerial vehicles to nations including Indonesia, Benin, India, and Saudi Arabia.

This development reflects a broader European push towards self-reliant, high-tech defense industries. Countries like Lithuania, Denmark, and Greece are also expanding their drone and counter-drone technology capabilities. Experts note that companies in smaller EU nations are innovating and building mass production capacity for defense items, including uncrewed systems.

Uncrewed aerial vehicles are reshaping modern warfare, offering increased flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Swarmly's marine drones, costing approximately 80,000 euros each, can neutralize much larger and more expensive naval assets, a tactic witnessed in Houthi attacks. The barriers to entry for drone development are relatively low due to readily available components on the global market.

Recent geopolitical events have spurred European nations to enhance their defense sectors. Cyprus, assuming the EU presidency on January 1, 2026, is set to receive substantial financial assistance from the EU's Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program, further bolstering its nascent defense industry which comprises around 30 companies.