Key facts
- Pentagon delays Phase 2.5 of Drone Dominance Program to November.
- Ukrainian companies face export controls, shipping delays, and visa hurdles.
- US procurement strategy increasingly relies on Ukrainian-made drones.
- Stellarion advanced in competition despite late arrival of its drones.
- At least four invited companies declined to participate in Phase 2.5.
The Pentagon has postponed Phase 2.5 of its Drone Dominance Program (DDP) to November, citing challenges faced by Ukrainian companies, including export controls, shipping times, and visa processing delays. This marks the first time the program has visibly adjusted its timeline to accommodate Ukrainian participants, highlighting the US reliance on their drone technology. The DDP, initiated in July 2025, aims to procure advanced drones for US defense forces amidst ongoing conflict.