North Macedonia Plans Drone and Counter-Drone Procurement as 2027 Defense Budget Rises
Planned investments in drones and counter-drone systems under a higher 2027 defense budget could open new procurement opportunities for suppliers in North Macedonia.
North Macedonia is preparing additional investments in drones and counter-drone systems as the government plans to increase its defense budget in 2027, potentially creating new procurement opportunities for domestic and international defense suppliers.
Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski announced on October 20 that the country's military budget would increase next year, with additional funding planned for unmanned aerial systems and counter-drone capabilities. The announcement forms part of a broader modernization program involving new equipment, military infrastructure, and personnel investment.
According to Macedonian media reports, the Ministry of Defense has identified drone and counter-drone procurement among its upcoming investment priorities. However, the government has not disclosed the planned procurement value, technical requirements, quantities, or tender schedule.
North Macedonia allocated approximately €358 million to defense in 2026, including €116 million for military modernization, according to previously published ministry figures. The exact size of the proposed 2027 budget increase has not yet been announced.
Potential Opportunities for Drone and Counter-Drone Suppliers
The latest announcement follows earlier statements by Misajlovski indicating that the ministry is exploring cooperation with Macedonian companies capable of developing or manufacturing military drones.
In August, the minister confirmed that discussions with domestic technology companies were being considered as part of efforts to strengthen the country's defense industrial base and retain more procurement spending within the national economy.
North Macedonia has already signed agreements covering U.S.-supplied Puma and Raven unmanned aircraft systems, while the newly announced investments could create additional opportunities in unmanned systems and counter-UAS technologies.
The government has not yet confirmed whether the additional purchases will be conducted through open tenders, direct agreements, or government-to-government procurement arrangements.
Separately, two Leonardo military helicopters are expected to arrive in November 2026 under an existing contract for eight aircraft, marking another step in the modernization of the country's armed forces.
For defense manufacturers and suppliers, the forthcoming budget decisions and procurement announcements will determine the scope and accessibility of the planned drone and counter-drone acquisitions.
