France delivers long-range strike drones to Ukraine for first time

Monday 26 January 2026 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

France delivers long-range strike drones to Ukraine for first time

French drone maker EOS Technologie has delivered several Rodeur 330 strike drones to Ukraine, the company confirmed this week, marking the battlefield debut of this long-range loitering munition capable of hitting targets up to 500 kilometers away.

First revealed by France 24, the shipment opens a new phase in deepening Franco-Ukrainian defense ties. EOS Technologie President Jean-Marc Zuliani told AFP that supplying drones to Ukraine gives Western manufacturers a unique chance to test unmanned systems in real combat conditions.

The catapult-launched Rodeur 330 handles both reconnaissance and kamikaze attack missions. Zuliani described it as a defensive "shield" for Europe but an offensive "sword" in Ukraine.

It flies up to five hours, carries a 4-kilogram payload, cruises at 120 km/h, and reaches 5,000 meters altitude. Its 3.3-meter wingspan and piston engine prioritize endurance over speed, unlike EOS's faster Veloce 330 variant. The company can control up to 30 Rodeur drones simultaneously from one ground station, enabling swarm tactics. EOS previously helped develop the MV-25 OSKA loitering munition, delivered to Ukrainian forces in June 2025.

The delivery comes amid intensified Franco-Ukrainian drone cooperation. In November 2025, Presidents Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelensky attended a joint drone production forum at the Élysée Palace to build Kyiv's capabilities.

Ukraine faces mounting pressure from Russian drone assaults. Armed Forces Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi stated Russia now produces over 400 Shahed-type drones daily, aiming for 1,000. Alta Ares CEO Hadrien Canter told France 24 that Ukraine needs about 20,000 drones monthly.

France has tapped its auto industry too. Renault announced last week a partnership with defense firm Turgis Gaillard to produce drones at two factories for Ukraine, backed by the French Defense Ministry.