Ukraine plans to produce its own air defense systems - Zelenskyy
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
The head of state emphasized that he is in daily communication with partners at both the political and military levels regarding air defense.
"We are looking for anti-ballistic capabilities. Most importantly, we are moving toward conditions where we will be able to produce air defense systems in Ukraine and together with partners — all necessary types of air defense: systems, missiles, and so on," Zelenskyy stressed.
The president noted that developing Ukraine’s own air defense production is a strategic objective that "will guarantee protection for decades."
"Among the security guarantees being considered for Ukraine are weapons packages, the ability to produce the necessary weapons, and therefore licenses for this and an industrial base. These are key elements," he said.
On April 15, Zelenskyy reported a critical shortage of Patriot air defense systems. The president added that Ukraine will have even less weaponry if the war continues.
Ahead of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, Ukraine coordinated with Belgium and Spain the strengthening of air defense and the expansion of aviation support for the Ukrainian Air Force.
In addition, it became known that Ukraine and Germany are preparing joint projects in the field of air defense, related to the development and use of next-generation laser weapons.
RBC-Ukraine also reported that Ukraine and Germany agreed on a large-scale €4 billion cooperation package. It includes the transfer of several hundred Patriot air defense missiles to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
