The Kosovar drone “SKIFTERI K1” is being tested, it has a range of over 1,100 kilometers

The Kosovar drone “SKIFTERI K1” is being tested with a range exceeding 1,100 kilometers, marking a major step in Kosovo’s growing domestic defence and drone technology capabilities.

 Kosovo Signals a New Era in Drone Capability

Kosovo has taken a significant step into advanced defence technology with the successful testing of its first domestically produced long-range drone. The aircraft, known as SKIFTERI K1, has demonstrated the ability to fly more than 1,100 kilometres, positioning the country among a small but growing group of states developing their own unmanned aerial systems.

The test has drawn attention both regionally and internationally, highlighting Kosovo’s ambitions to strengthen its technological independence and defence capacity through local innovation.

The Kosovar drone “SKIFTERI K1” is being tested, it has a range of over 1,100 kilometers

The successful testing of the drone was announced by Ridvan Aliu, founder and chief executive of Future Minds Academy, a Kosovo-based company involved in drone development and production. Writing on social media, Aliu described the test as a milestone moment.

“Kosovo ready to strike from the air 1000+ km away. SKIFTERI K1 tested by one of our customers with maximum accuracy,” he said.

According to information released by the company, the drone completed a continuous flight lasting 7 hours and 12 minutes, covering a total distance of 1,124 kilometres. During the test, SKIFTERI K1 reportedly carried a payload of 42 kilograms, demonstrating not only its endurance but also its operational capability.

While detailed technical specifications remain undisclosed, the results suggest the drone is designed for long-range missions that require precision, stability, and sustained performance.

A Landmark for Domestic Defence Production

The testing of SKIFTERI K1 marks the first time a long-range drone has been produced and tested entirely within Kosovo. Analysts say the achievement reflects a broader trend of smaller nations investing in domestic defence technologies to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

Future Minds Academy has not disclosed how many units may be produced or who potential buyers might be. However, Aliu’s reference to a “customer” suggests that the drone has already attracted interest beyond the testing phase.

Experts note that drones with extended range and significant payload capacity are typically used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and, in some cases, combat-related operations, depending on configuration and deployment.

Government Support for Defence Innovation

The development of the drone has received public backing from Kosovo’s leadership. During a visit to the drone manufacturing facility in November, Kosovo’s acting Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, underlined the government’s commitment to strengthening domestic defence capabilities.

“Now we are producing combat drones ourselves,” Mr Kurti said. “As a government, both at the central and local levels, we will support and encourage capacity building and production, while not stopping investments in defence and security.”

His comments suggest that drone development is part of a wider national strategy focused on security, technological advancement, and industrial growth.

Regional and Strategic Implications

The Kosovar drone “SKIFTERI K1” is being tested at a time when unmanned aerial systems are playing an increasingly prominent role in modern defence strategies. Across Europe and beyond, drones are being used for border monitoring, disaster response, intelligence gathering, and military operations.

While Kosovo has not provided details on how the drone will ultimately be deployed, the successful test signals a clear intent to expand its technological footprint in the defence sector.

As development continues, observers say further transparency will be crucial in understanding the drone’s intended use and its place within Kosovo’s broader security framework. What is clear, however, is that the successful testing of SKIFTERI K1 represents a notable moment for Kosovo’s growing defence technology industry.