Ukraine Aims to Become Weapons Production Hub for the West
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine’s newly appointed head of defense industry, Oleksandr Kamysyhin, is determined to enhance local arms production and transform the country into a weapons production hub for Western countries. Kamysyhin stated that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East have underscored the importance of countries investing in their defense systems.
“We’re really focusing on making Ukraine the arsenal of the free world,” Kamysyhin told The Associated Press in a recent interview. The minister for strategic industries of Ukraine explained that approximately 500 companies in Ukraine’s defense industry are collaborating to increase weapons production and counter Russia’s attempts to seize more territory. These companies include 70 state-owned factories, over 200 primarily private factories producing unmanned systems, and more than 200 private sector companies involved in the production of various types of weaponry and ammunition.
Kamysyhin emphasized that Ukraine is dedicated to producing all types of weapons and ammunition, proving their effectiveness on the battlefield and continuously improving them during times of war. He believes that Ukraine’s defense industry can make a significant contribution to the free world as the importance of defense systems continues to grow globally.
Having been appointed to the post eight months ago, Kamysyhin is now responsible for overseeing the 300,000 individuals employed in Ukraine’s defense industry. Previously, he served as the chief of the national railway Ukrzaliznytsia, where he ensured the smooth operation of trains even during the war, facilitating the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians.
Kamysyhin acknowledged that Ukraine had to start building its local manufacturing capabilities from scratch. Prior to 2022, Ukraine had a minimal defense industry and relied mainly on existing resources and military aid from allies. However, the situation has changed, and Ukraine is now delivering domestically produced munitions to the battlefield and increasing its ability to strike inside Russia.
While specific figures were not disclosed, Kamysyhin revealed that Ukraine is manufacturing mortar and artillery ammunition, drones, armored vehicles, missiles, and various other items. The defense industry has experienced significant growth in certain segments, with artillery ammunition production increasing twentyfold and armored vehicle production growing fivefold in the last ten months.
Crucially, the increased local production of weapons has enhanced Ukraine’s capacity to launch attacks on Russian territory. Kamysyhin cited regular drone strikes occurring in Russian cities such as Moscow, Sochi, and Krasnodar.
Due to concerns about the escalation of the conflict, Western allies have been cautious about providing Ukraine with weapons capable of reaching Russia. However, Kamysyhin believes that defense technology, particularly in innovative warfare, is a game-changer and the fastest-growing sector in Ukraine’s defense industry.
To strengthen cooperation and explore joint production opportunities, Ukraine recently hosted an international defense industry conference. Over 60 companies from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Turkey signed an agreement to join the Alliance of Defense Industries of Ukraine.
Kamysyhin has ambitious plans for Ukraine’s defense industry and envisions a future where the country can export various types of weapons and munitions, much like its grain exports. He believes that this development could help revitalize Ukraine’s war-drained economy.
Despite the steady growth of the defense industry, Kamysyhin acknowledges that Ukraine will always rely on foreign partners to meet its needs. With the ongoing war against Russia, he recognizes the magnitude of the conflict and the necessity of foreign supply.
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