Ukraine to Launch Joint Weapons Production Program with International Partners

Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov has announced the launch of a program for the joint production of weapons with international partners. This initiative, aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s military capabilities, involves collaboration with countries participating in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which operates under the Ramstein format. The plan includes the development of four draft laws that are expected to be adopted within a month to formally establish the program’s legal framework.

The announcement comes as part of broader efforts to secure and increase military support for Ukraine. The joint production program is seen as a strategic move to reduce dependency on a single supplier and to ensure a more sustainable and diverse supply chain for defense equipment. Umerov emphasized that the collaboration will not only enhance Ukraine’s defense readiness but also strengthen its alliances with international partners.

According to the defense ministry, the program will focus on the production of various weapon systems, including missiles, artillery, and air defense systems. The involvement of multiple countries is expected to bring in diverse expertise and resources, which could significantly boost Ukraine’s capacity to manufacture and maintain its military hardware. The legal framework will be crucial in ensuring that the collaboration is structured, transparent, and compliant with international regulations.

This initiative is part of a larger strategy to bolster Ukraine’s defense sector and to counter ongoing challenges in the conflict with Russia. The adoption of the draft laws within the next month is a key milestone that will determine the program’s implementation timeline. Umerov’s announcement underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the complex security situation in Ukraine.