A Ukrainian delegation with nearly 20 industry representatives, led by Lviv deputy mayor Serhiy Kiral has visited Taiwan recently, while defense and drone companies had comprised a quarter of the group. The visit aimed to leverage Ukraine's battlefield-tested drone expertise for Taiwan's defense industry development.
Volodymyr Chernyuk, CEO of Iron Cluster, Ukraine's largest defense startup alliance, outlined how combat needs drive rapid innovation cycles. Unlike traditional defense contractors with lengthy development timelines, Ukrainian companies deploy minimally refined products to frontlines, then iterate based on immediate battlefield feedback.
Ukraine's defense sector breaks from Western models dominated by state enterprises. Private companies, startups, accelerators and foreign venture capital now propel the industry while maintaining efficient military cooperation.
Iron Cluster encompasses over 80 defense technology firms focused on drones and counter-drone systems. Founded three years ago, the alliance conducts field testing at Lviv facilities before direct military deployment, bypassing complex approval processes.
Chernyuk emphasized the natural collaboration potential between Taiwan and Ukraine, citing similar defense challenges. Ukraine offers battle-proven technologies and combat experience, while Taiwan provides semiconductor and electronics expertise for developing superior, cost-effective defense products.
The alliance operates through member integration - Roboneers manufactures ground combat drones, Oko Camera produces thermal imaging systems replacing Chinese and European imports, and Metalworkshop supplies critical metal components.
Chernyuk identified flight control systems, communication modules, video transmitters, motors, cameras and batteries as priority collaboration areas. While dual-use civilian applications remain under discussion, the current focus prioritizes defense needs given the uncertain conflict duration.
Ukraine's battlefield validation combined with Taiwan's manufacturing capabilities and electronics creates strong international competitiveness, Chernyuk noted. Ukraine's European market access and cost-effective production environment further enhance partnership advantages.
Article edited by Joseph Tsai
