Ukraine's Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) and the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) have concluded an investigation into the alleged embezzlement of millions of hryvnias during drone procurement. According to the SAP, in 2023, the State Special Communications Service of Ukraine (Derzhspetszviazok) was allocated 30 billion UAH for drone purchases.

The investigation revealed a plan to embezzle funds by purchasing drones from predetermined companies at inflated prices. Controlled firms reportedly simulated competition to ensure these companies won tenders. Between May and September 2023, Derzhspetszviazok allegedly acquired 400 DJI Mavic 3 drones and 1,300 Autel Evo Max 4T drones at prices 70-90% above market rates. Additional contracts in September 2023 for DJI Mavic 3T, DJI Mavic 3Pro, and DJI Matrice M30T drones also involved prices 60-90% higher than market value, resulting in an estimated loss of 254 million UAH.