President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine requires approximately $30 billion annually to fully launch its defense production capabilities. He made this announcement during a meeting with media representatives, noting that the country is preparing to license air defense systems in the near future.
This is reported by Business • Media
Additional Funding for the Missile Program
The head of state emphasized that the current level of funding for the defense sector does not allow Ukraine to realize its full potential in missile production and other defense technologies. According to him, the comprehensive development of the missile program, particularly in the area of “Ukrainian ballistics,” requires a significant increase in investments that cannot be covered solely by bilateral support from international partners.
“This amount is necessary to ramp up production, particularly of the missile program, to full capacity. Currently, we are underfunded by approximately this amount each year,” he explained.
Expansion of Production and International Cooperation
The president reported that Ukraine has already made significant progress in developing its missile program and aims to secure funding for the establishment of new production lines, including abroad, to ensure their safety and stable operation. Zelensky stressed that after the war concludes, international partners will be able to access cutting-edge defense technologies, with the launch of such productions planned for this year.
He is also convinced that with adequate funding, Ukraine will be able to effectively counter Russian missile strikes, and the modernization of its defense capabilities will significantly bring about the establishment of peace. The president emphasized that a strong defense response could catch Russia by surprise, as it has yet to fully experience the consequences of the war.