Ukraine has introduced its new family of TOLOKA underwater drones at the Defense Tech Valley 2025 exhibition, underscoring the country’s commitment to expanding indigenous defense technologies. First publicly showcased on September 19, the lineup consists of three distinct models, each designed for different operational scenarios. The drones have strike ranges extending up to 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles), giving them the potential to engage distant targets in contested maritime environments. The smallest unit, the TLK-150, is optimized for stealth infiltration, making it highly suitable for asymmetric warfare operations where concealment is critical. These drones are part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to offset conventional military disadvantages by investing in unmanned systems that offer cost-effectiveness and strategic reach. The unveiling demonstrates progress in indigenous research and development despite wartime constraints. It also signals a growing shift toward unmanned underwater capabilities, an area previously less emphasized compared to aerial and ground drones. The TOLOKA family positions Ukraine within an advanced defense niche, enabling it to threaten adversaries at extended ranges while avoiding direct engagement. The announcement aligns with Ukraine’s ongoing push to integrate homegrown technologies into its wider defense ecosystem. With the increasing relevance of drone warfare in modern conflicts, the TOLOKA drones mark a significant milestone in Ukraine’s defense modernization and signal long-term intentions to strengthen its domestic military-industrial base.
