Kazakhstan is taking concrete steps toward launching its own military drone production, a move that could significantly strengthen the country’s defense capabilities.

The Ministry of Defense confirmed that the initiative is currently under consideration, with preliminary agreements already reached with Turkish defense firm Baykar Defence, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Kazakh Deputy Defense Minister Askar Mustabekov said that the project is now in the evaluation phase.

“We have an agreement regarding Bayraktar drones. The project is being studied, and I believe a decision will be made in the near future,” Mustabekov said on the sidelines of a Senate session.

Kazakhstan is also closely studying global military experience, including that of the United States, Iran, Ukraine, and Russia, where both large and small drones have proven highly effective. Officials say the country is exploring the possibility of producing smaller unmanned systems domestically as well.

Mustabekov noted that further progress will depend on increased defense funding, particularly if spending reaches 1% of GDP. While details remain undisclosed due to the sensitive nature of the project, plans reportedly include the potential production of reconnaissance and strike drones, including loitering “kamikaze” systems.