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An Australian Army Reservist has been arrested after allegedly working unauthorised as a drone operator for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The 25-year-old South Australian Army Reservist has been charged with breaching Defence legislation after allegedly fighting in Ukraine and allegedly working for a foreign military without authorisation, and was scheduled to face Adelaide Magistrates Court on 7 April.
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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.
Australian Aviation sister brand Defence Connect approached Ukrainian ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko for comment about the case.
“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).
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