Testing opportunities in Ukraine

Testing opportunities in Ukraine – testing of innovation and defense technologies

Ukraine is currently one of the most active innovation and defense technology testing grounds in the world. The state and semi-state mechanisms created in the country allow both domestic and international manufacturers to test, develop, and evaluate defense and dual-use technologies in real-world conditions close to operational needs.

We offer the following alternatives to Lithuanian companies and startups that want to test their solutions in Ukraine:

1. Test in Ukraine – Brave1 initiative

Description

Test in Ukraine is a testing platform coordinated by the Brave1 Defense Innovation Cluster, designed for local and international manufacturers to test technological solutions in Ukraine. The platform focuses on rapid practical testing, close collaboration with end-users, and structured feedback.

Who is it for?

• For developers of defense and security technologies
• For startups and companies with working prototypes or products
• For international manufacturers seeking to assess the suitability of solutions for real-world war conditions

Areas of tested solutions

• Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
• Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs)
• Electronic warfare and communications solutions
• Software, artificial intelligence, autonomy solutions
• Other defense and dual-use technologies

Testing formats

• Test Together – the manufacturer itself participates in testing in Ukraine
• Leave it to us – the product is handed over to the Brave1 team, which organizes testing and provides a report on the results

Testing progress

1. Registration and submission of the decision through the official application platform
2. Initial assessment of the suitability of the decision
3. Harmonization of testing format and conditions
4. Testing in real or near-real conditions
5. Providing structured reports and user (military) feedback

Main benefits

• Fast and direct feedback from end users
• Ability to improve the product according to real operational needs
• Access to the Ukrainian defense innovation ecosystem and potential partners

Links

• Test in Ukraine platform: https://testinukraine.brave1.tech/
• Brave1 Defense Innovation Cluster: https://brave1.gov.ua/en/
• Submitting solutions (registration): https://portal.usf.com.ua/submit-your-solution

2. Iron Range (Zaliznyi Polihon) – Ukrainian state testing program

Description

Iron Range (Ukrainian: "Zaliznyi Polihon") is a testing service created by the Ukrainian state that allows developers and manufacturers of defense technologies to use the official infrastructure of military training grounds and receive expert assessment approved by institutions. The program focuses on structured, safety-compliant testing.

Who is it for?

• For developers of defense and security technologies
• For manufacturers of weapons and military equipment
• For startups and companies with prototypes or early-stage solutions

Nature of the solutions being tested

• Defense technology prototypes
• Weapons and military equipment components
• Unmanned, robotic, communications, and electronic warfare systems

Testing progress

1. Application submission through the official portal poligon.zsu.gov.ua
2. Administrative verification of the information provided
3. Security and compliance verification by the responsible authorities
4. Decision on testing and invitation to testing
5. Testing at military ranges according to a harmonized methodology
6. Official conclusions and expert report after testing

Applications can be submitted again after improving the product or solution.

Opportunities for foreign companies

There is no requirement in official sources to be a Ukrainian company. Foreign manufacturers can apply through the same system, but their solutions are additionally assessed from a security, compliance and logistics perspective (including import and permit issues).

Main benefits

• State-owned, institutionally recognized testing environment
• Testing in real military infrastructures
• Official expert conclusions suitable for further development or negotiations
• Testing service is provided at no additional charge.

Links

• Iron Range testing portal: https://poligon.zsu.gov.ua/
• Official description of the Ukrainian Defense Services:
  https://www.zbroya.gov.ua/en/services/zaliznyi-polihon

3. Direct testing with end users

In addition to official programs such as Brave1 or Iron Range, defense technologies in Ukraine can be tested directly with units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Products are integrated into active service, and the manufacturer receives feedback based on operational conditions.

This model is particularly relevant when solutions are delivered through international technical assistance programs or other cooperation mechanisms.

Who is it for?

• For defense technology manufacturers with working products or advanced prototypes
• For companies seeking a real operational assessment
• For international manufacturers operating in Ukrainian support initiatives

Testing model

• Direct coordination with departments
• Integrating the product into real operations
• Collecting operational and technical feedback
• Iterative product improvement

Important aspects
When testing, it is necessary to ensure the protection of intellectual property, control of technology transfer, and data security. The information collected may fall under the scope of state secrets or dual-use regulations; it is recommended to assess the legal requirements in advance.

For effective operation, a local presence in Ukraine (e.g., establishing a subsidiary) is often recommended, allowing for management of equipment transfer, training, maintenance, and compliance issues.