For first time, foreign government is funding Ukrainian drone school: Canada picks foundation that has already bought Ukraine nearly $50M in drones

Canada has become the first foreign government to fund a Ukrainian drone-training program, with the Serhii Prytula Foundation set to host a 24-month course in FPV and fixed-wing drone operations. The Canadian Military Training and Cooperation Program is providing financial support, enabling the development of a scalable and replicable training system that can keep up with rapidly changing drone technology.

This arrangement allows Canada to benefit from Ukraine's expertise in the field, as the country is currently considered a leader in drone warfare. Andrii Shuvalov, CEO of the Serhii Prytula Foundation, emphasized the recognition of the quality and standards of Ukraine's training programs. Colonel Eric Andresen of Canada framed the deal as a mutually beneficial partnership, highlighting that Ukrainian service members will train alongside leading instructors, while Canada gains from Ukraine's extensive combat experience and training capabilities.

The foundation has already made significant contributions to Ukraine's war efforts, spending approximately $39 million on strike drones, $10 million on reconnaissance drones, $8.6 million on vehicles, and $1.9 million each on optics and communications gear. This funding has put the Prytula Foundation among the country's biggest private suppliers of military equipment.