On September 6, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that nearly 60% of the weapons used by the country were domestically produced, an increase of about 20% compared to half a year ago.
However, Mr. Zelensky admitted that the Ukrainian defense industry still has many limitations, especially in the field of air defense. Ukraine is currently unable to fully produce its air defense systems and must seek cooperation with other countries. He sees this as a big challenge that needs to be overcome soon to ensure long-term defensive capability.
In recent months, Kiev has implemented many initiatives to promote defense production capacity. The first drone manufacturing line has been launched in Denmark under a bilateral cooperation model. Ukraine's Fire Point company also announced the development of two new models of ballistic missiles and air defense systems, after the 3,000km range Flamingo cruise missile entered mass production.
According to the 2025 fiscal budget, Ukraine will spend $1.3 billion on the defense industry, aiming to reduce dependence on external weapons. However, Mr Zelensky has called on the West to provide additional air defense systems, including US-made patriots.
US President Donald Trump announced a new deal in July, under which European countries will purchase US weapons, including patriots, to indirectly transfer to Ukraine. The initiative is part of the priority Requirements List (PURL) mechanism managed by NATO, to meet Kiev's most urgent needs.
Mr. Zelensky said that receiving more support from the PURL program will be a key issue in the coming time, while affirming Ukraine's goal of combining production autonomy and enhancing international cooperation to strengthen defense capabilities.
