Ukrainian Leleka and Bulava drones get remote control function

The Leleka (Stork) reconnaissance UAV and the Bulava (Mace) mid-range strike drone, both made by Ukrainian defence manufacturer DeViro, have gained a remote control function.

Source: Roman Cherednychenko, DeViro's marketing director, in an interview with Defender Media, a Ukrainian media outlet specialising in Ukraine's defence tech industry

Details: The company has tested the new function and is now offering the option to crews. Even with the new function, an on-site team is still required to launch a UAV.

Quote: "The launch still takes place mostly 15-20 km from the front line. A field team connects the communications station to the internet, launches the UAV and moves to a safe location."

More details: DeViro explained that with a stable internet connection, operators can control Leleka and Bulava drones from anywhere in Ukraine.

DeViro recently presented the upgraded versions of both drones at Eurosatory 2026.

The Bulava M2V has had its potential strike range increased from 80 to 130 km, while the weight of its warhead has been raised from 3.6 to 5 kg. The upgraded drone will also be able to stay airborne for almost twice as long – 95 minutes. It is currently undergoing beta testing.

The new Leleka M2R model will have its operating range increased from 80 km to over 100 km, with an integrated enemy interceptor drone evasion system and improved wind resistance.

Background: Earlier, DeViro unveiled a prototype of its new Sokyra (Hatchet) interceptor drone, which has entered the final stage of testing.

Subscribe on Patreon to back our journalism long-term.