Germany announces delivery of thousands of AI-controlled drones to Ukraine

Germany on Monday said it was delivering 4,000 AI-controlled strike drones to Ukraine, days after Kyiv slammed German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for holding talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the package marks “a huge step for the Ukrainians because they are AI-controlled and can disable enemy electronic defenses.”

The drones, manufactured by the German company Helsing, “can reach targets up to 30-40 kilometers in the hinterland, especially command posts and logistical hubs,” Pistorius added.

The decision comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rebuked Scholz for holding a call with Putin about bringing the war in Ukraine to an end, ending a concerted European effort to isolate the Russian leader.

Although the drones are referred to as a “Mini-Taurus,” Germany is holding firm in its refusal to send Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine.

On Sunday, the Biden administration granted permission for Kyiv to strike targets deep inside Russia with US-made weapons, ending its years-long opposition to the move.

A spokesperson for the German Defense Ministry, said it was unable to provide details about when the “Mini-Taurus” drones would be delivered, but said the package “is currently in preparation.”