NABU and SAPO complete probe into drone procurement scheme
NABU and SAPO have completed a pre-trial investigation into a large-scale corruption scheme during the procurement of UAVs and electronic warfare equipment for the needs of the defense forces, which involved current and former officials, military personnel, and representatives of private companies.
According to the investigation, in 2025, an organized group systematically appropriated budget funds that local governments allocated for the needs of the defense forces. This involved purchasing UAVs and electronic warfare equipment at inflated prices with subsequent receipt of illegal profits.
In a number of episodes, in particular during the procurement of electronic warfare systems, the participants in the scheme received up to 30% of the contract amount as a “kickback.” Similarly, during the procurement of FPV drones worth almost UAH 10 million, the products were supplied at an overpriced price of approximately UAH 3 million, after which part of the funds were transferred to the defendants.
The investigation also established episodes of influence over the signing of contracts involving military officials - for this, according to law enforcement officers, an illegal benefit of more than 25% of the amount of the agreements was transferred.
Separately, the alleged illegal enrichment of one of the members of the organized group was documented: in 2021–2024, he could have acquired assets worth over UAH 62 million, including apartments in Kyiv and Uzhhorod, a house, cars, and a motorcycle. According to the investigation, part of the property was registered in the name of third parties.
Among the suspects are the former head of the Luhansk Oblast Armed Forces , Serhiy Haiday, a people's deputy, officials of military administrations, servicemen of the National Guard, as well as representatives of UAV manufacturing companies.
The defendants are charged with a number of articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, including misappropriation of property, obtaining unlawful benefits, abuse of influence, illegal enrichment, and obstruction of the activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In addition, the defendants are charged with obstruction of the lawful activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine - in particular, through the issuance of "reservations" for individuals for a monetary reward.
We previously reported that the HACC extended the arrest of former Minister Galushchenko.
