Ukraine’s defence strategy is undergoing a critical shift as the war with Russia intensifies along its extensive frontlines. While international support has been vital, President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine must reduce its reliance on foreign arms to achieve long-term security and self-sufficiency. The current reality—where about 40% of Ukraine’s weapons are domestically produced—demands urgent change.
Zelensky has set an ambitious target: within six months, Ukraine aims to meet 50% of its defence needs through domestic production. This push is not just about numbers but about strategic independence. “Ukraine must reduce its dependence on external sources of arms and ammunition,” Zelensky stated, emphasising that over-reliance on international partners undermines national security. The goal is clear: Ukraine must accelerate its ability to produce not just drones and ammunition—where it already leads—but also missiles and air defence systems.
The recent reshuffling of Ukraine’s government, including the appointment of a new prime minister, underscores the urgency of this mission. The new administration is tasked with boosting the productivity of Ukraine’s defence industry, a sector that currently involves around 25 major defence companies. To meet its goals, Ukraine will likely need to establish joint ventures with foreign partners and localise production of critical systems. This approach would allow Ukraine to leverage international expertise while building domestic capacity.
Zelensky’s vision extends beyond mere production. He has also promised that Ukraine will continue to prepare long-range strikes against Russia, targeting capabilities essential for Moscow’s offensive operations. These strikes are not just about defence; they are about shifting the war back onto Russian territory, forcing Russia to confront the consequences of its aggression. “Ukraine seeks to return the war to the territory of the country that started it,” Zelensky declared, a strategy that aims to disrupt Russian military logistics and morale.
The success of Ukraine’s self-sufficiency drive will hinge on its ability to innovate and scale production rapidly. The Bohdana self-propelled howitzer, a Ukrainian-designed system built on a Tatra chassis, is a prime example of what can be achieved. However, replicating this success across a broader range of weapons—particularly in advanced systems like missiles and air defences—will require significant investment, collaboration, and political will.
As the war drags on, Ukraine’s ability to produce its own weapons will be a decisive factor in its long-term resilience. The coming months will reveal whether Ukraine can meet its ambitious targets and, in doing so, redefine its role in the conflict—not just as a defender but as a self-sustaining force capable of shaping the future of European security.