Zelenskyy proposes building IRIS-T and NASAMS air defense systems in Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine's Western partners plan to increase the production of IRIS-T and NASAMS air defense systems. These systems could be assembled directly in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said at a meeting in the Ramstein format.
"Discussions have already begun in your countries about increasing the production of NASAMS, IRIS-T, and other systems. These systems could be produced in Ukraine. They will strengthen our shared security — because what we produce here will protect both you and us," the President of Ukraine noted.
He also added that Ukraine is working closely with its partners on the production of Ukrainian-made weapons, with a focus on investment. Several projects have already been launched.
"We want to increase production by 50%. We understand what the Ukrainian defense industry needs right now. We have the capacity, we have the reserves, and we have the will — what we need is funding. And we are ready to provide detailed calculations," the president said.
Zelenskyy reminded that Ukraine is improving its drone capabilities and delivering real results — as demonstrated by Operation Spiderweb.
He specified that $70 billion is currently available in Ukraine's national budget for weapons procurement.
"That's why we need team-building, we need to unite. That's why the outcomes of today's Contact Group meeting are very important for us — especially when it comes to investment in Ukraine's defense sector," the president said.
Air defense for Ukraine
Air defense systems remain one of Ukraine's top priorities, as Russia continues to launch regular missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.
On May 28, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine had reached important agreements on air defense with Germany.
