A Proof-of-Concept Project
In collaboration with General Atomics, Ukraine Defence, and the dedicated Ukraine USAF SAFE team, we are moving forward with acquiring two of the MQ-9A Block 1 aircraft for an in-country proof of concept.
There remains significant hurdles to the acquisition of these aircraft. Those barriers include the transport cost that can not be funded by either US and Ukraine funds. The offer by General Atomics of the two Reapers includes training, SATCOM costs, spare parts, and maintenance for the first six months of operation. In addition, there are concerns that the platform is unsuitable for deployment in Ukraine airspace in its current configuration.
We are extremely grateful to the global network of Ukrainian supporters known as #NAFO or #NAFOfellas. One of the issues that we faced at the start of this process was a lack of awareness and public support. This has been achieved by engaging and working with the formidable global #NAFO influencers.
To understand more about this project here are some interviews that Peka Kallioniemi published.