Zelensky shared the update on his official Telegram channel.
“Our Ukrainian weapons help protect the lives of our soldiers and achieve results on the battlefield. Our defense production—both equipment and shells—increases the space of our security and the arsenal of opportunities,”
— Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
Growing Domestic Production
According to Zelensky, Ukraine’s continued emphasis on developing its own defense technology each year represents a “strategic perspective.” He also thanked local manufacturers, state entities, and international partners investing in Ukraine’s defense industry.
- Domestic Weapon Production:
Since the full-scale war began, Ukraine’s share of domestically produced weapons has increased significantly—from under 10% to 34%.
Key Ukrainian Weapons and Innovations
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Naval Drones
- Sea Baby & MAGURA V5: These unmanned naval vehicles have demonstrated significant success against Russian targets in the Black Sea.
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Missile Program
- Neptune Missiles: Ukraine’s Neptune system famously sank the Russian cruiser Moskva. In November last year, Zelensky mentioned “long Neptunes” had achieved their first successful strikes.
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Artillery & Anti-Tank Systems
- Bogdana Self-Propelled Guns: Ukrainian-made artillery contributing to effective counter-battery operations.
- Stugna & Korsar ATGMs: Indigenous anti-tank guided missile systems offering a strong defensive edge.
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Long-Range Drones
- Bober, Morok, Lyuty: These UAVs enable the Ukrainian Defense Forces to strike strategic targets inside Russian territory, degrading the enemy’s critical resources.
- Vampire Drones: Nicknamed “Baba Yaga” by Russian forces, these have become a persistent threat, underscoring Ukraine’s growing prowess in drone warfare.
Zelensky’s showcase of homegrown technology reflects Ukraine’s broader strategy to expand its domestic defense sector, fortifying its security in the face of ongoing challenges. As production scales up, Ukraine’s military gains a more robust, modern, and adaptable arsenal, bolstered by local innovation and international partnerships.
