Does Ukraine produce its own air defense systems? Air Force explains
Photo: The Air Force told whether Ukraine has air defense systems of its own production (Getty Images)
The Ukrainian Air Force does not yet have a fully domestically produced surface-to-air missile system. However, intensive work is underway, along with the modernization of existing weapons, said Colonel Denys Smazhnyi, an officer of the Ukrainian Air Force Command in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
"Western (air defense systems - ed.) have not replaced Soviet ones; we still use Soviet systems. The only issue is that after three years of war, our stockpile of guided anti-aircraft missiles for these systems has been significantly depleted. However, there are numerous projects, both domestic and foreign, aimed at adapting other missiles. So, Soviet systems will continue to function and fulfill their air defense role," Smazhnyi said.
At the same time, he noted that the number of systems is difficult to calculate.
"Gradually, we will, of course, replace all our Soviet systems. In terms of system types, we now have more foreign ones, but in terms of quantity, we still have quite a few Soviet complexes," the colonel added.
When asked whether the Ukrainian army has its own domestically produced air defense systems, Smazhnyi said that modernization efforts are ongoing.
"The Ukrainian Air Force does not yet have a fully domestic air defense system. But work is underway, and our industry is looking for ways to address these issues quickly," he added.
Air defense for Ukraine
Air defense systems are one of the main needs of Ukrainian defenders, including Patriot. They can shoot down not only cruise missiles but also ballistic missiles.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that the country needs 12-15 more Patriot or similar systems to protect its skies.
According to the head of state, partners can provide this number of air defense systems for Ukraine, but it all depends on political will.
Zelenskyy also said that Ukraine had asked the United States to grant licenses for the production of Patriot air defense systems. The US did not refuse, but did not give anything.
