France's defense ministry has approached Renault (RENA.PA) with a view to helping manufacture drones, the automaker said on Sunday, after the ministry last week suggested that French companies could support drone production efforts in Ukraine.

"We have been contacted by the defense ministry about the possibility of producing drones. Discussions have taken place, but no decision has been taken at this stage, as we are awaiting further details on this project from the ministry," Renault said in a statement to Reuters.

Earlier on Sunday, French news website Franceinfo reported that the French carmaker was expected to produce drones in Ukraine, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter.

Asked about the report, the French defense ministry told Reuters it was up to the carmaker, without naming it, to confirm whether it would be involved.

Also without naming specific companies, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu said on Friday in an interview with French news channel LCI that France would establish a partnership between a major French automaker and a small defense firm.

Israel’s National Drone Initiative advances to next level (credit: B.Y. Creative & Productions)
Israel’s National Drone Initiative advances to next level (credit: B.Y. Creative & Productions)

Efforts by France, other European countries, to increase support for Ukraine

Lecornu said the purpose of the partnership would be to equip production lines in Ukraine for the construction of drones.

The potential involvement of Renault in such a project follows broader efforts by France and other European countries to increase support for Ukraine through industrial cooperation.

Drones have played a significant role in Ukraine’s defense since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, providing both surveillance and strike capabilities. Their use has continued to expand as Ukraine seeks to strengthen its domestic defense manufacturing.

Renault said it would wait for further details from the ministry before taking any action or making a decision regarding participation in the proposed initiative.