Ukraine’s Missile Production Soars Amid Rising Tensions
Ukraine has revealed a remarkable eightfold increase in its domestic manufacturing of cruise and ballistic missiles. This significant boost enhances the nation’s capability to face ongoing Russian aggression. Minister of Strategic Industries, Herman Smetanin, declined to provide specific production figures but indicated that 2023 saw the introduction of numerous new missile models, marking a pivotal advancement in Ukraine’s defense production.
The groundwork for this accelerated missile production was established late last year when the country confirmed the assembly of over 100 R-360 Neptune missiles, even with a month left in the year. Following this, President Volodymyr Zelensky set a bold target for 2025, aiming to produce 3,000 cruise missiles to replenish stockpiles and strengthen deterrent capacities.
Pursuing Self-Sufficiency in Defense
Ukraine’s push to ramp up domestic arms production aligns with shifting geopolitical circumstances, notably changes in U.S. foreign policy. As Kyiv’s main ally in its defense efforts, Washington’s support has been crucial. However, earlier this year, U.S. President Donald Trump temporarily halted military aid and intelligence sharing, injecting uncertainty into the situation. In response to these challenges, Ukraine has committed to greater self-sufficiency.
Presidential Advisor Oleksandr Kamyshin emphasized the country’s ability to provide its armed forces with nearly all necessary military equipment. “Defense manufacturing has become a significant contributor to our GDP,” he stated. Kamyshin expressed confidence that following a successful outcome in the conflict, Ukraine would begin exporting domestically produced weapons worldwide.
Expansion in the Arms Industry
Beyond missiles, Ukraine has experienced a 100% increase in long-range drone production in 2024, compared to the previous year. The defense sector has generated an estimated $9 billion worth of arms in 2024, with projections to quadruple this figure by the end of 2025. Kamyshin noted, “Currently, about 30 to 40 percent of the materiel used by our troops on the frontlines is locally produced. This isn’t merely about warfare; it’s about bolstering our economy.”
Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, stressed that weapons manufactured in Ukraine are specifically tailored to meet the actual needs of the conflict, asserting they are comparable in quality to their Western counterparts. This development highlights Ukraine’s growing capacity to defend itself and its commitment to evolving as a capable military producer.
