Ukraine has revealed a remarkable expansion in its domestic production of cruise and ballistic missiles, demonstrating a substantial increase that enhances its capacity to address ongoing Russian aggression. Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin announced that the country has introduced “many new models” of missiles in 2023, significantly advancing its defense manufacturing capabilities. The details of production figures were not made public, but the minister provided insights into the progress made since 2022, when Ukraine’s missile production was limited to just one type — the R-360 Neptune.
The foundation for this rapid growth in production was established in late 2024, when Ukraine reported manufacturing over 100 Neptunes within a year. In response to these developments, President Volodymyr Zelensky set an ambitious goal of producing 3,000 cruise missiles by 2025 to ensure stockpiles are replenished and deterrence is reinforced.
This strategic move toward enhancing domestic arms production comes amidst evolving global political dynamics, particularly a notable shift in U.S. foreign policy. As Ukraine’s primary defense ally, the United States has played a crucial role in supporting the country’s military efforts. However, earlier this year, this support appeared to waver when U.S. President Donald Trump temporarily suspended military aid and intelligence sharing, prompting Ukraine to reassess its reliance on foreign assistance.
In light of this uncertainty, Ukraine is increasingly focusing on self-sufficiency in its military capabilities. Presidential Advisor Oleksandr Kamyshin highlighted that the nation is now capable of supplying its armed forces with almost the entire range of required military equipment. He noted the significant contribution of defense manufacturing to the country’s GDP, expressing confidence that, following anticipated victory, Ukraine would continue to export domestically produced weapons to global markets.
Moreover, Ukraine’s defense sector is experiencing considerable growth beyond missile production. In 2024, the country reported a 100 percent increase in long-range drone production compared to the previous year. The overall output of the defense industry was valued at approximately $9 billion in 2024, with expectations to quadruple that amount by the end of 2025. Kamyshin indicated that currently, around 30 to 40 percent of the military equipment utilized by troops on the frontlines is produced domestically, signifying both a shift in military logistics and a boost to the national economy.
Kyrylo Budanov, chief of Ukraine’s military intelligence, underscored the relevance and effectiveness of Ukrainian-made weapons, asserting that they are tailored to meet the real needs of the ongoing conflict and possess capabilities on par with Western alternatives. This bolstered domestic production not only strengthens Ukraine’s military position but also reinforces its economic resilience amidst ongoing challenges.
