Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that nearly 60 per cent of the weapons used on the front lines against Russia are now domestically produced, marking a significant shift in Ukraine’s defence capabilities. This development underscores the rapid expansion of Ukraine’s defence industry, driven by necessity and strategic foresight.
“During this war, Ukraine has already reached the level where nearly 60 per cent of the weapons we have, weapons in the hands of our warriors, are Ukrainian-made, and they are strong weapons, many of them cutting-edge,” Zelensky stated. This declaration comes as Ukrainian defence company Fire Point announced the development of two new ballistic missiles and advanced air defence systems, just weeks after its Flamingo cruise missile entered serial production.
Ukraine’s defence sector has undergone a remarkable transformation since Russia’s full-scale invasion. The country has not only accelerated domestic production but also forged international partnerships, such as the joint drone production line established in Denmark. This strategic pivot has been supported by a substantial budget allocation of Hr 55 billion ($1.3 billion) for defence manufacturing in 2025, a clear signal of Ukraine’s commitment to reducing reliance on foreign weapon supplies.
Despite these advancements, Zelensky acknowledged the ongoing challenges. “Of course, there are goals we must still achieve, in particular, the production in Ukraine and together with Ukraine of air defence systems, of different types. It’s a challenge. And we must get there as well,” he said. This call to action reflects Ukraine’s urgent need for robust air defence capabilities, a gap that has been partially addressed through Western support.
The United States, under President Donald Trump, has played a pivotal role in bolstering Ukraine’s defences. On July 14, an agreement was reached allowing European countries to purchase American arms, including Patriot missile systems, for Ukraine through NATO’s Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism. This initiative ensures that Kyiv’s most critical battlefield needs are met efficiently.
Zelensky emphasised the importance of continued international support, stating that Ukraine is “working to secure new contributions from partners to the PURL program,” which will be a key focus in the coming weeks. This collaborative approach highlights the interconnected nature of modern defence strategies, where domestic production and foreign aid must work in tandem to ensure security.
The rapid progress in Ukraine’s defence industry in 2025 is a testament to the country’s resilience and adaptability. Just five months ago, Zelensky reported that over 40 per cent of frontline weapons were Ukrainian-made. The leap to 60 per cent in such a short timeframe demonstrates the speed and scale of Ukraine’s industrial mobilisation.
As Ukraine continues to fortify its defence capabilities, the lessons learned from this conflict will undoubtedly shape future military strategies and industrial policies. The country’s ability to innovate under pressure serves as a compelling case study in the importance of self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing, a lesson that resonates far beyond its borders.