In a recent announcement, Ukraine’s Minister of Defense, Denys Shmyhal, revealed plans to expand the existing Contract 18–24 program to encompass drone operators. The updated contract provides a two-year service obligation, accompanied by a payment of one million hryvnias. This move is expected to bolster Ukraine’s aerial capabilities and support the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The Contract 18–24 program, which has already seen significant participation from various military and civilian personnel, now aims to integrate drone operators into its framework. This expansion reflects the growing importance of unmanned aerial systems in modern warfare and the need for specialized personnel to operate these assets effectively. The two-year service term is designed to ensure a stable and trained workforce capable of sustaining operations over an extended period.
Financially, the new contract offers a compensation of one million hryvnias, which is intended to cover the operational costs and provide a reasonable income for participants. This payment structure is part of broader efforts to attract and retain skilled individuals in the defense sector. The inclusion of drone operators is seen as a strategic move to enhance Ukraine’s surveillance and strike capabilities, providing a significant advantage in the current conflict.
Minister Shmyhal emphasized that the expansion of the program is a direct response to the evolving nature of military operations and the necessity to adapt to new threats and technologies. The program’s expansion is also expected to contribute to the training and development of a specialized workforce, which could have long-term benefits for Ukraine’s defense infrastructure and security posture.