The Government of Montenegro has approved a “letter of intent” to partner with the American company By Light Professional IT Services LLC to commence the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) within the country. This significant initiative, valued at $15 million, has received support from the US administration led by President Donald Trump.
Montenegrin media reports indicate that the first batch of domestically produced drones will be donated to Ukraine, underscoring Montenegro’s commitment to international security.
The agreement, expected to be finalized with a formal contract signing in September, states that the project will bolster Montenegro’s military capabilities within the NATO alliance, provide essential defense support to Ukraine, and solidify Montenegro’s global standing as a reliable partner in modern military equipment.
The letter of intent, approved on May 29, is slated to be signed by Montenegro’s Minister of Economic Development, Nik Gjeloshaj, and Robert J. Donahue, CEO of By Light Professional IT Services LLC.
The collaboration will also involve Montenegrin and regional companies in the testing of unmanned systems, including both aerial and underwater technologies. The Montenegrin government has affirmed its readiness to provide the initial series of drones and associated equipment to Ukraine.
The US Embassy in Montenegro stated that this move demonstrates Montenegro’s seriousness in fulfilling its NATO obligations, especially as European allies are expected to take on a greater burden for their security, including investing in American unmanned aerial systems. The Embassy also emphasized that the approval of this agreement will contribute to regional security, stability, and shared development, encouraging further investment in the defense industry.
