Australian Army Reservist arrested after alleged drone operator work for Armed Forces of Ukraine

Defence legislation regulates the work certain individuals can perform for a foreign military, government or company without authorisation.

“It is alleged the Felixstow man travelled to Ukraine in May 2025 to serve as a drone operator for the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the war with Russia without authorisation. In January 2026, he returned to Australia,” according to a statement from the AFP.

“AFP investigators executed a search warrant at a home in Felixstow on Thursday (2 April 2026) and seized several electronic devices, including a mobile phone and laptop. Forensic examination of the electronic devices allegedly identified images linking the man to participation in a foreign conflict.

“The man was charged with one count of foreign work restricted individual working for a foreign military organisation or government body, contrary to section 115A of the Defence Act 1903 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is 20 years’ imprisonment.

AFP Counter Terrorism Commander Paula Hudson said the AFP worked closely with its local, Commonwealth and international partners to protect Australia’s interests. The electric devices will be subject to further AFP forensic analysis.

Defence Connect approached Ukrainian ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko for comment about the case.

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“All Australian engagement with Ukraine’s defence must adhere to the requirements of Australian legislation,” he said.

Anyone with information about individuals with sensitive Defence knowledge intending to work for a foreign military or government body, or who have done so without authorisation, should contact the National Security Hotline (1800 123 400). 

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.