Ukraine and Denmark are preparing to deepen the so-called Danish model of defense support, which directs partner funding into Ukrainian production rather than only purchasing weapons abroad. Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov discussed the approach with Danish defense minister Troels Lund Poulsen.
According to Fedorov, the model has already attracted three billion dollars for Ukrainian production of drones, electronic warfare systems and missiles. The logic is direct: when partners finance Ukrainian manufacturers, delivery times can shorten and the country’s defense industry becomes stronger.
Production as a form of security
The talks covered expansion of the model, localization of production in Denmark and joint work on anti-ballistic solutions. The issue is expected to be raised at the next Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting.
For Ukraine, this is not only about one funding channel. Domestic production has become a strategic asset. It helps adapt equipment to battlefield feedback faster, gives manufacturers larger order books and builds industrial resilience under pressure.
The Danish model also changes how allies think about support. Instead of separating aid and industry, it connects both: foreign money, Ukrainian engineering and practical battlefield needs. If expanded, it could become a template for other countries that want to support Ukraine while strengthening European defense capacity.
The challenge will be predictable financing and clear coordination. Defense manufacturers need stable demand, secure supply chains and quick procurement decisions. Without that, even a strong model can slow down at the implementation stage.
