From War to Business: Ukrainian Drones Shift Focus from Conflict to Civilian Market

Juggling two jobs is challenging, especially when one of them involves working in a warzone. However, for Ivan Kaunov, being the CEO and co-founder of Buntar Aerospace while also serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces are complementary roles.
Kaunov develops drones for long-range flights at Buntar Aerospace, while also flying drones on combat missions for the military. The experience gained from using drones in warfare provides valuable feedback for improving the technology to better fit the demands of modern combat.
Buntar Aerospace has already tested its unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the field and now aims to scale production for military reconnaissance missions. The startup has garnered support in Ukraine, where drones have played a significant role in various military operations.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to a surge in drone startups in the country. With over 90% of the drones used by Ukraine now being domestically made, the government aims to produce 1 million drones by 2024, driving exponential growth in the UAV sector.
While military applications of drones currently dominate the market, there is also potential for civil uses. Drones can serve a variety of purposes, from military reconnaissance to agricultural operations or search and rescue missions. The emerging technology presents opportunities for dual-use applications that cater to both military and civilian needs.
As Ukraine continues to invest in domestic drone production, opportunities for startups in the sector are on the rise. Private funding for Ukrainian drone startups remains limited, but government support and alliances with international partners could help expand the market for UAV technologies.
Despite the focus on military applications due to the ongoing conflict, UAV startups like Buntar Aerospace are eyeing opportunities beyond the battlefield. The emerging dual-use sector holds promise for commercial applications of drone technology, paving the way for new business opportunities in the future.