Los Angeles-based Neros Technologies has secured a significant contract to supply 6,000 first-person view attack drones to Ukraine, marking a pivotal step in the international coalition aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities. This agreement encompasses the delivery of Neros Archer drones over the course of six months, establishing what is reported as the highest supply rate for any U.S. drone manufacturer.
In a statement, Soren Monroe-Anderson, co-founder and CEO of Neros, highlighted the company’s dedication to meeting Ukraine’s urgent needs. “One of the first things we did when we started the company was go to Ukraine,” he stated, emphasizing the feedback they received regarding production expectations. Monroe-Anderson noted that if the company could not reach a production capacity of 5,000 drones per month, it would be deemed ineffective in supporting Ukraine’s requirements.
The Neros Archer is designed with a robust specification, capable of carrying a 2-kilogram (4.5-pound) warhead and boasts an operational range exceeding 20 kilometers (12 miles). Notably versatile, the drone can operate both day and night, including in adverse weather conditions, which is crucial for tactical applications in various environments. Measuring just 8 inches (20 centimeters), the Archer incorporates advanced features such as a jam-resistant design and operates on multiple control frequencies, combined with a wide-band video transmitter that enhances its functionality on the battlefield.
A significant aspect of the Archer drones is their manufacturing integrity; they comprise no Chinese components. This is an unusual achievement among drone manufacturers who often rely on Chinese parts due to cost considerations. Monroe-Anderson elaborated on the challenges faced in sourcing these critical components, specifically motors and cameras, stating that Neros has collaborated closely with partners to bolster production lines outside of China.
It is important to note that while the contract encompasses the drones themselves, it does not include the payloads. These will be installed by Ukrainian personnel in-house, allowing for tailored integration with their specific operational requirements.
This contract highlights both the urgency and the innovative measures being taken in the ongoing effort to support Ukraine in its military endeavors, as well as the evolving landscape of defense manufacturing and international collaborations in the drone technology sector.
