Zelenskyy holds meeting of Staff of Supreme Commander-in-Chief: What was discussed
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held another meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. The strengthening of the army was discussed during the meeting, according to the president's evening address.
According to him, various issues were discussed at the Headquarters, but overall, it was "about our independence in weapons."
"Drone production, missile programs, technological components for the army, including robotic systems. We are working on large-scale purchases and large-scale production in Ukraine. I am grateful to all the partners who are helping us," Zelenskyy stated.
What is known about the drone program
At the January Ramstein meeting, the president stated that in 2025, Ukraine plans to set a new record for the quantity and quality of drones.
According to him, drone production in Ukraine is currently more efficient than anywhere else in the world. This focus is due to the fact that drones help the Defense Forces in holding back Russian forces on the frontlines.
Thus, this year, Ukraine will continue to scale up various types of drones – from maritime drones to UAVs capable of long-range strikes on military targets and infrastructure within Russian territory. As for long-range weapons, the goal is to produce 30,000 units by the end of the year.
Today, The New York Times reported that the US has secretly invested in the development of drone production in Ukraine.
What is known about the missile program
As stated by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, the plan for 2025 is to produce 3,000 cruise missiles and missile-drones.
It is important to note that details of the missile program are shrouded in secrecy, and there is a good reason for this — Russia is hunting for its facilities. According to Western media reports, part of the production has been moved to protected bunkers, while some components are made in hundreds of hidden locations.
For example, components for the latest Trembita missile are being assembled in garages. For more details, read the material Can Ukrainian-made Trembita missile reach Moscow? New details and specifications.
It is known that during the Russo-Ukrainian war, the Neptune missiles were used multiple times. As for the first domestic ballistic missile, as of autumn 2024, successful flight tests have been completed. The missile's name remains undisclosed.