Quantum Systems confirmed on November 12 that hostile actors targeted its systems in a cyberattack in late October. The German defense manufacturer produces drones for land, air, and maritime operations, including interceptors. The company security team contained the attack and maintains that its drones remain safe to use. "Companies at the forefront of supporting Ukraine are being targeted precisely because our work is critically relevant to customers’ security," the company stated. Quantum Systems did not name the attackers or state if Russia was involved.
Defense industry targets
The company investigates the incident with cybersecurity experts and German authorities. Quantum Systems serves as a major supplier of reconnaissance drones to Ukraine and opened a drone factory in Ukraine in April 2024. In December 2025, the company announced a partnership with Ukrainian maker Frontline Robotics to produce Ukrainian-designed drones in Germany. Germany also announced plans in October 2026 to fund the production of "tens of thousands" of interceptor drones by Quantum Systems in Ukraine.
Increasing frequency of attacks
Cyberattacks on the European defense industry have increased in frequency since the full-scale Russian invasion, particularly against companies supplying weapons and military equipment to Ukraine. This targeting occurs as Ukraine faces continuous aerial threats. On November 13, Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russian forces launched 117 long-range attack drones, Gerbera and simulator drones overnight, including 63 jet-powered drones. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on November 13 that restrictions applied over Russian-occupied territory and along the front line make it "impossible" to use interceptors against Shahed-type drones. Maj. Gen. Oleh Apostol, commander of Ukraine’s Air Assault Forces, said during a meeting with journalists that heavy casualties limit Moscow’s ability to sustain its offensive despite a manpower advantage.
