Ukraine has emerged as the world’s top importer of major arms from 2020 to 2024, with imports soaring nearly a hundredfold compared to the 2015-2019 period, according to a recent report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). In parallel, the nation has significantly enhanced its domestic arms production, a strategic response to the comprehensive invasion by Russia that began in February 2022.
Domestic production on the rise
As of now, approximately 35% of Ukraine’s military weaponry is produced locally, a remarkable increase from less than 10% at the onset of the full-scale invasion. The current supply chain for Ukraine’s military consists of about 30% coming from Europe and 40% from the United States. However, Ukraine is well-positioned to further increase its self-production capabilities. In an interview with Euronews, Ukraine’s Strategic Industries Minister, Herman Smetanin, stated,
“Up to 40% of weapons used at the frontlines are made in Ukraine. It is almost a half and we can produce even more, we just need funding.”
Ukraine boasts around 500 arms manufacturers, employing nearly 300,000 individuals. Smetanin emphasized that these companies are eager to boost production and output but are hindered by financial constraints and a lack of long-term funding commitments. He highlighted the challenges faced by Ukraine compared to Russia, saying,
“Not a single country would be able to be fully self-sufficient given the intensity of Russia’s war against Ukraine.”
Innovation and new technologies
In a strategic move to enhance its defense capabilities, Ukraine has recently opened access for private companies to state-owned defense technologies. This initiative allows private manufacturers to step in when state-owned enterprises cannot meet defense procurement needs. Smetanin described this as a significant shift, noting,
“We have a new generation of weapons constructors and developers. Thanks to them, Ukraine is becoming stronger in the world thanks to the technologies we have.”
Young engineers and graduates from Ukrainian universities are at the forefront of developing innovative technologies, including deep-strike drones and advanced reconnaissance systems. Smetanin expressed optimism about the growing interest from foreign entities, stating that foreign visitors are increasingly eager to explore Ukraine’s production capabilities, attracted by cost-effective, tested technologies.
Furthermore, Ukraine is making strides in missile production, an area where it previously lagged. Smetanin revealed that the country now produces its own missiles, a significant advancement from the single anti-ship missile it had developed over a decade. Recent developments include the unveiling of the domestically produced missile drone “Peklo,” which boasts a range of 700 kilometers and speeds up to 700 km/h. Additionally, plans to commence serial production of the long-range “Palyanytsia” missile drone by the end of 2024 are underway, with trials for the new “Ruta” missile ongoing.
Amidst this progress, Smetanin acknowledged the challenges posed by relying on the US-made Patriot defense systems, particularly as military shipments from Washington face potential delays. He concluded by emphasizing the complex nature of Ukraine’s dependence on foreign support in its ongoing defense efforts.