To strengthen cooperation with Sweden and NATO, Ukraine is participating in Sweden's largest military exercise, Aurora 26. Kyiv has deployed several unmanned aerial vehicle units, and Ukrainian drone operators are sharing their experience gained on the front lines with their allies in the combat use of unmanned aerial vehicles and modern defensive tactics.

The Aurora 26 exercise, taking place from April 27 to May 13 and involving 18 troops from 13 countries, including 12 NATO member states and Ukraine, represents a large-scale exercise of Sweden's operational plans as part of the alliance's collective defense. The key objective of the maneuvers is to strengthen the defense of the strategically important island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea, which is considered a key control point for maritime and air routes in the region.

During the final phase of the exercise, over 1000 troops were deployed to Gotland to bolster its defenses. In addition to Ukrainian drones, NATO countries also deployed air defense units, logistics hubs, and infantry units to the island. The final phase of the exercise is scheduled for May 11 and includes joint combat operations on the island.

Aurora 26 is a symbolic and practical embodiment of Sweden's transformation following its accession to NATO in 2024. While the country previously focused on defending its own territory, its mission is now to protect the entire alliance, which is being practiced during the maneuvers.