Ukraine reduces China dependence in defense sector, increases use of local parts
Photo: development of components for the defense industry (RBC-Ukraine / Vitalii Nosach)
Production of components for Ukraine's defense sector is increasing. At the same time, the most advanced technologies still remain dependent on imports, according to RBC-Ukraine article titled.
In recent years, Ukrainian enterprises have significantly expanded production of component bases for the defense-industrial complex. This allows manufacturers to respond more quickly to frontline needs and more flexibly select components for new developments.
Market participants note that Ukraine now produces structural elements, mechanical parts, and certain electronic boards and modules. Software development, control systems, and upgrades of production infrastructure are also actively advancing.
Read also: Weapons manufacturers name the main shortage for Ukraine's defense industry
Localization becomes a key trend
According to manufacturers, Ukrainian suppliers benefit from faster logistics and can respond more quickly to customer needs.
One of the most notable trends in recent years has been the growing localization of component production. The sector is currently undergoing three parallel processes: localization of simple and medium-complexity components, formation of in-house engineering teams, and investment in production capacity for serial manufacturing of critical parts.
This direction is additionally supported by state programs and defense clusters, including Brave1. At the same time, manufacturers emphasize that localization is a long-term process requiring years of development.
Dependence on imports is gradually decreasing
According to open estimates, the share of Chinese components in some Ukrainian drones has fallen to about 38% over the past year.
However, the situation varies significantly depending on the specific product and company. Some Ukrainian manufacturers have already reached up to 90% localization, while certain products still remain heavily dependent on foreign supplies.
One example of successful localization is drone cameras. Some companies are already planning to build specialized facilities for producing daytime and nighttime cameras.
Ukrainian manufacturers have also mastered the production of gimbals — camera stabilization systems with mounts and software for image stabilization. According to market participants, some of these solutions already match leading Western analogues.
Which technologies remain challenging
At the same time, the most complex microelectronic components still remain import-dependent.
Manufacturers explain that building domestic production of such products requires multibillion-dollar investment, long-term preparation, and a large internal market. Therefore, Ukraine’s defense industry cannot yet fully replace these technologies.
We also reported that China remains one of the key suppliers of components for Ukraine’s defense sector. At the same time, manufacturers are gradually diversifying supply chains and increasing procurement from the EU, US, Taiwan, and South Korea.
Industry representatives emphasize that it is currently impossible to completely отказаться from Chinese components. However, Ukrainian companies are increasingly working to reduce critical dependence on a single market and to build alternative supply channels.
