The German Armed Forces have temporarily suspended the use of drones from Quantum Systems after a massive cyberattack on the German defense technology manufacturer. Security measures also prevented the company from participating in recent Bundeswehr military exercises.
This was reported on November 13 by the Financial Times, citing sources familiar with the situation.
According to the publication, unknown attackers gained access to Quantum Systems' software update distribution system. A malicious file disguised as a software update for QBase, which is used for ground control of drones and flight planning, was spread through the company's server.
As Der Spiegel found out, the suspicious update was delivered to the systems of the Bundeswehr and other customers of the manufacturer, where it was detected during checks. The incident caused concern among German military and intelligence services.
The German armed forces decided to temporarily not use the manufacturer's drones until the circumstances are clarified. The German Ministry of Defense refused to comment on the readiness status of military equipment, citing security considerations.
Quantum Systems itself confirmed the cyberattack, but stated that the threat has already been contained. According to the company, the incident was discovered at the end of October 2026. An internal investigation established that it was a targeted attack by unidentified attackers.
In a statement on November 12, the manufacturer said that its cybersecurity specialists, together with government agencies, were able to contain the threat. According to the company's assessment, the operation of its unmanned systems currently poses no risk to users and operators. Quantum Systems also emphasized that its fleet of drones remains operational.
Meanwhile, the investigation continues. The company did not name the likely organizers of the attack, and German authorities have not yet published conclusions about its origin.
The incident attracted particular attention due to Quantum Systems' close cooperation with Ukraine. The company supplies Ukrainian military with Vector reconnaissance drones and also develops joint production of defense systems with Ukrainian enterprises.
According to the Financial Times, Quantum Systems has more than 200 employees in Ukraine and participates in three joint ventures engaged in the development and production of strike drones, interceptor drones, and ground robotic platforms.
It is currently unknown whether the cyberattack affected the company's operations in Ukraine. There are no confirmed reports of the termination of use of its drones by the Ukrainian military.
German intelligence services have previously warned of the growing threat of cyberattacks, industrial espionage, and sabotage against defense companies, especially those that support Ukraine. However, no evidence of Russia's involvement in this particular incident has been made public so far.
Based on materials from: Financial Times, Der Spiegel, Quantum Systems
