The Finnish defense industry company Summa Defence plans to open a factory to produce unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) and NATO, according to the company's press service.
"The demand for drone technologies and production capacity is high. The drones will be supplied not only to Ukraine but also to European Union and NATO countries. Drones will become an integral part of society, ensuring the protection of critical functions in areas such as civil security, defense, and other sectors," said Jussi Holopainen, the CEO of Summa Defence.
Production of the drones is expected to begin in early 2025. Summa Defence plans to create a subsidiary, Summa Drones, which, in collaboration with Ukrainian partners, will open a plant in Finland. In the future, Summa Drones will produce not only aerial vehicles but also ground and maritime drones.
"Through the joint venture, drones in the Summa Defence product portfolio have already demonstrated their importance and strategic significance in Ukraine. Drones play a key role in protecting critical infrastructure and in emergency and rescue operations. Relocating production to Finland will strengthen the reliability of supplies both to Ukraine and other international regions," Holopainen added.
The press service emphasized that Summa Defence is currently finalizing negotiations to acquire several companies in the security and defense technology sectors.
