Ukraine’s DBR Probes $190M Drone Procurement Corruption: Search Conducted at Co-Owner of Vyriy Industries.

DBR Investigation into Vyriy Industries

According to Espreso.tv: Ukraine’s State Bureau of Investigation (DBR) has launched a probe into alleged corruption at Vyriy Industries, a company that fulfilled nearly 7 billion hryvnias (approximately $190 million) in state drone supply contracts during 2025. The investigation covers charges of large-scale embezzlement, money laundering, and document forgery.

As part of the case, the DBR is scrutinizing financial transactions exceeding 197 million hryvnias. Authorities have identified over 150 individual entrepreneurs (FOPs) who may be linked to the scheme. Searches were carried out on July 7 at the home of Oleksii Babenko, a co-owner of Vyriy Industries. According to Kateryna Kobernyk,

“$3,500 were found at home, and all data from the phone was seized.” — Kateryna Kobernyk.

Further details of the case are set to be announced at a press conference scheduled for July 7 at 7:00 PM, as reported by Kobernyk.

Ongoing DBR Efforts

The DBR continues its work to identify and document potential corruption schemes in public procurement, particularly in the drone supply sector. Law enforcement agencies maintain oversight, and further investigations may lead to additional revelations.

This investigation is part of a broader DBR initiative targeting corruption in state procurement, which has become increasingly urgent amid heightened military conflicts and the need to equip the army with reliable technology. Uncovering possible abuses in this area could significantly impact public trust in state institutions and improve the management of budget funds.