{
  "id": 6660036,
  "title": "Ukraine starts building a jet-powered drone with a range of over 1,000 kilometers",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/10/ukraine-starts-building-a-jet-powered-drone-with-a-range-of-over-1",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-10T22:45:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "TechRadar",
    "slug": "techradar",
    "url": "https://www.techradar.com/pro/ukraine-starts-building-jet-powered-drone-with-a-range-of-over-1-000-kilometers"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ukraine has initiated European manufacturing of its BARS jet-powered strike drone, with the latest iteration boasting a range of over 1,000 kilometers. The BARS drone can now carry warheads weighing up to 60 kilograms, marking a significant increase from earlier models. Production commenced in early September, with the objective of boosting output as developers continue to customize the drone for various mission needs. This joint venture between Ukraine and Germany will see the initial finished drones arrive in Ukraine's Defense Forces on October 10, 2026. The arrangement was agreed upon on July 8 between Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, with Germany covering the cost of the first production stage. However, the availability of turbojet engines remains a key constraint, as their delivery determines the speed at which additional aircraft can exit production. Despite this limitation, the newest BARS configuration can reportedly travel 1,000 kilometers, while its maximum warhead weight has risen from 22.5 kilograms on previous models to 60 kilograms. The drone's design allows developers to adjust fuel storage and payload capacity depending on the required distance for a specific mission. BARS has undergone more than 40 design modifications and upgrades since its prototype was created. It is available in DeepStrike, MiddleStrike, and FrontStrike configurations, each tailored for different mission ranges and operational requirements. The drone incorporates artificial intelligence into various stages, from engineering work to the final guidance system. During its final phase of flight, operators can either continue controlling the drone or transfer control to optical guidance. This expansion of BARS production in Europe is a strategic move for Ukraine, as German financing and an easier supply chain lessen the burden on Kyiv's defense budget. Furthermore, producing BARS in Europe protects manufacturing from Russian strikes that have frequently targeted Ukrainian defense facilities. For Germany, this partnership signifies a deeper commitment to Ukraine's long-term defense industrial base rather than just short-term arms transfers. This collaboration enhances bilateral ties and demonstrates that European support can result in tangible, enduring battlefield capabilities. The longer-range, heavier-payload drone with AI-assisted guidance increases Moscow's defensive costs by targeting deeper behind the front line. This forces Russian air defenses to extend across a broader area, while the joint-production model may serve as a template for future allied co-production deals.",
  "summary": "Ukraine has begun producing BARS strike drones in Europe, with German funding supporting systems offering longer range and heavier warheads.",
  "key_points": [
    "Ukraine begins European manufacturing of BARS jet-powered drone",
    "BARS drone can travel over 1,000 kilometers with 60kg warheads",
    "Germany funds initial production stage, delivery dependent on turbojet engines"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Calgary Herald",
        "title": "Canada looks to Ukraine's drone expertise as Carney, Zelenskyy deepen defence ties at Calgary meeting",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/10/canada-looks-to-ukraines-drone-expertise-as-carney-zelenskyy-deepen",
        "published": "2026-09-10T22:25:22.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}