President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine expressed his desire to transform the country’s defense industry into a “large military hub” by collaborating with Western weapons manufacturers. The goal is to increase the supply of arms for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia. Despite constant Russian bombardment, Zelenskiy convened a forum with international producers to discuss the joint development of industrial capacity for building and repairing weapons in Ukraine.
During the forum, Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of advancing without retreating and obtaining daily results from the frontline. He expressed interest in localizing the production of defense equipment and advanced defense systems used by Ukrainian soldiers. Zelenskiy highlighted air defense and de-mining as immediate priorities, while also aiming to boost domestic production of missiles, drones, and artillery ammunition.
Since June, Kyiv has been engaged in a counteroffensive to recapture territories seized by Russia. While progress has been made in liberating villages, major cities remain under Russian control. Ukraine heavily relies on Western financial and military support, which has been crucial since Russia’s invasion in 2022. However, the ongoing war has created a growing demand for arms and ammunition.
The forum was attended by executives from weapons producers representing over 30 countries. Some producers expressed difficulties in meeting Ukrainian demand due to depleting stocks and struggles in finding supplies. Ukrainian officials view the development of domestic defense production as an opportunity to boost the economy, which has suffered a significant contraction due to the war.
Several leading Western producers, including Rheinmetall from Germany and BAE Systems from Britain, have already announced plans to collaborate with Ukrainian producers. The Ukrainian government has signed approximately 20 agreements with foreign partners for joint production, technology exchange, and component supply for drones, armored vehicles, and ammunition. The government also intends to create special economic conditions to attract Western investment in the domestic defense sector, including a fund to support technology development.
President Zelenskiy believes that the partnership with Western weapons producers will be mutually beneficial and sees it as an opportune time and place to establish a large military hub. The Ukrainian government is committed to fostering this collaboration and creating a favorable environment for the defense industry.
Overall, Ukraine aims to strengthen its defense capabilities through partnerships with Western manufacturers, increase domestic production, and ultimately enhance its ability to counter Russian aggression.
