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LeVanta Tech Teams Up With Ukraine to Build Dual-Mode Drone That Flies and Floats
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
American company LeVanta Tech has launched a partnership with Ukraine to develop a unique drone capable of both flying and operating on water.
The announcement was confirmed by Herman Smetanin, CEO of Ukrainian Defense Industry, who shared the news via Telegram on October 7.
According to Kelly Eccles, founder and CEO of LeVanta Tech, the project carries both technological and symbolic importance for Ukraine and the United States.
“Ukraine is the world leader among free nations in unmanned technology. There are many drones that can fly and those that can float, but very few that can do both. That’s exactly what we’re building,” Eccles said in an interview with Militarnyi on October 7.
The new system, named Halia, is a maritime drone capable of remaining on the water’s surface for long periods with minimal visibility and, when needed, transitioning into high-speed flight.
LeVanta Tech plans to conduct joint research and development with Ukrainian engineers to produce the first prototypes for testing directly in Ukraine. If the trials are successful, the company is considering setting up production facilities in the country.
“We see great potential right here. If you’re building drones, why not be in Ukraine? You are the best specialists in the world—not only in technology but also in the tactics of their use,” Eccles added.
He emphasized that working in Ukraine holds both emotional and strategic significance. Following the opening of its office in Estonia, LeVanta Tech intends to apply Ukrainian expertise to accelerate projects across the Baltics, Europe, and NATO countries.
“I feel like I’ve left a piece of my heart in Ukraine. People here are fighting for their freedom, and I see it as my moral duty to help,” Eccles said.
According to Militarnyi, LeVanta Tech already collaborates with the US Air Force and Navy and holds contracts with the US Department of Defense. The company believes Ukrainian experience and innovation will further strengthen its position in the global defense technology market.
Earlier, a Ukrainian FPV drone from Lasar’s Group turned a Russian air defense vehicle into a weapon of its own, landing on a Buk-series loader and driving it about 15 kilometers toward an enemy launcher before detonating and destroying the equipment.
