Ukrainian Defense Industry (UDI) has entered into a partnership with US-based LeVanta Tech to jointly develop a hybrid drone capable of both flight and surface operations on water.
The collaboration builds on LeVanta’s Halia—a sea-launched aerial drone introduced in 2023—and seeks to merge the endurance of maritime drones with the speed, agility, and stealth of aerial systems.
Unlike traditional seaplane-type UAVs, the new design will be able to take off and land in rough sea conditions, expanding its operational flexibility, according to LeVanta Tech.
The company plans to conduct joint research and development activities with Ukrainian engineers, with testing scheduled in Ukraine. Production expansion into Ukraine is also under consideration.
The multi-role hybrid platform will be capable of entering contested zones by air, landing on water, and transitioning into a surface drone, featuring a low radar cross-section for reduced detectability.
Designed to carry heavier payloads than conventional UAVs, it can deliver long-endurance ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) and communications relay missions.
After completing its mission, the drone can rapidly withdraw from the area. In aerial mode, it can scan wide areas and land for detailed inspection, while in free-float mode, it conserves power to sustain longer sensor and communication operations.
