# Leonardo defense R&D expansion and testing in Ukraine

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/leonardo-defense-rd-expansion-in-ukraine
> Updated: 2026-09-07T07:37:02.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 3.

Italian defense group Leonardo has established a new subsidiary, Leonardo Ukraine LLC, headquartered in Kyiv. The entity is fully owned through Leonardo International and is designed to function as a scientific and engineering research and development hub.

The subsidiary focuses on high-tech sectors including communication and navigation systems, software architectures, IT services, and electronic and optical technologies. The move aims to integrate Leonardo into the Ukrainian defense technology ecosystem, including the state-supported Brave1 hub.

CEO Lorenzo Mariani has expressed interest in collaborating with Ukraine’s advanced drone industry and tactical solutions, such as electronic warfare and AI-integrated target interception. Building on this strategy, Leonardo plans to conduct tests for its Michelangelo Dome multi-domain air defense shield directly in Ukraine during the final part of the year. Mariani noted that these tests will specifically focus on drone defense components, which he described as a “fundamental element of the shield.”

In related defense developments, Leonardo has signed a contract with Kongsberg to supply X-GUN 30 mm weapon systems. These will be integrated into a multi-layered counter-UAS defense system for an unidentified NATO client. The X-GUN is designed to act as a precision effector against hostile unmanned aerial platforms. Mariani also highlighted the company’s strengthening collaboration with Rheinmetall and its significant presence in the US Department of Defense and helicopter sectors.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-07: Leonardo expands defense footprint with Ukraine tests and Kongsberg contract

Leonardo plans to test its Michelangelo Dome air defense shield in Ukraine and has secured a contract with Kongsberg to supply X-GUN 30 mm systems for NATO counter-drone defense.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/leonardo-expands-defense-footprint-with-ukraine-tests-and-kongsberg-contract

### 2026-08-23: Leonardo establishes new defense R&D subsidiary in Kyiv

Leonardo has launched Leonardo Ukraine, a Kyiv-based subsidiary focused on R&D for defense technologies, including drones, electronic warfare, and advanced communication systems.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/leonardo-establishes-new-defense-rd-subsidiary-in-kyiv-1

### 2026-08-20: Leonardo establishes new defense R&D subsidiary in Kyiv

Italian defense company Leonardo has launched Leonardo Ukraine LLC in Kyiv, focusing on R&D for drones, electronic systems, and air defense technologies to integrate with Ukraine's defense ecosystem.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/leonardo-establishes-new-defense-rd-subsidiary-in-kyiv

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Cite as: Leonardo defense R&D expansion and testing in Ukraine. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/leonardo-defense-rd-expansion-in-ukraine