Ukraine starts series production of the Firefly guided bomb for drones

Harriet L. Whitmore • August 16, 2026 22:03

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Ukraine has begun series production of its new Firefly guided bomb for drones, a Ministry of Defence-backed programme intended to boost the striking power of the Defence Forces. The system has already cleared operational trials and has been authorised for large-scale manufacture, aligning with Kyiv’s push to expand the use of domestically developed weapons in response to Russia’s invasion.

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Firefly completed trials and is ready for manufacturing

The new Firefly guided munition was built for use from bomber drones and can be employed at altitudes of up to 800 metres. Once released, it autonomously calculates its flight path and continuously adjusts its course towards the target, retaining accuracy even in environments disrupted by electronic warfare measures. With these traits, the system can engage fortifications, trenches and other protected positions from a distance considered safe for the aircraft carrying it.

Firefly guidance and resilience against electronic warfare

Because the munition corrects its own trajectory after release, it is designed to maintain precision despite electronic interference. This allows drone crews to strike dug-in or sheltered targets while keeping the launch platform further away from the threat area.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence stated that the developers tested the guided bomb on the main bomber drones used by the country. After finishing that testing phase, the system confirmed its effectiveness and was cleared to move into series production. In addition, Resolution No. 1310 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine-approved on 13 October 2025-permits the Ministry to transfer rights to use the technology to private companies in the defence sector. As a result, manufacturers and innovators linked to the Brave1 platform will be able to integrate the design into their own production lines to expand overall output.

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Domestic production takes on a larger role in the defence strategy

The start of production for the Firefly guided bomb for drones sits within Ukraine’s broader approach of maintaining a technological edge over Russian forces. During the first half of the year, the Ministry of Defence added 1,184 new models of weapons and military equipment to the authorised inventory for the Defence Forces. Of that total, more than 90% are Ukrainian-made developments-including the Flamingo cruise missile-and the arsenal also received more than 200 new types of munitions.

Talks with NATO and allies on Patriot PAC-2 air-defence missiles

At the same time, Ukraine continues to seek international support to strengthen its air defence. In that context, Kyiv is holding discussions with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and several European allies to obtain additional capabilities, including up to 200 Patriot PAC-2 missiles belonging to Greece. According to Greek media, Athens faces ongoing pressure to increase military assistance to Ukraine, as some of those missiles may be approaching the end of their service life after more than two decades with the Hellenic Air Force. From Ukraine’s perspective, these systems could bolster air defences that remain under sustained Russian attack.

Cover image sourced from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence.