Ukraine plans to produce its weapons in other countries, aims to export technology, and forecasts $43B in domestic defense industry investment.

In an interview, President Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is negotiating the initiation of defense production abroad. Notably, there are already agreements in place with Denmark, Norway, Germany, Britain, and Lithuania. Formal agreements on the controlled export of Ukrainian military technologies are set to be signed in the summer. The Ukrainian president affirmed that this year investment in the domestic defense industry will total $43B. Together with partners, preparations for new investments in production are underway, particularly in drones and shells. Zelenskyy also highlighted that he ordered the government to ensure that next year Ukraine’s partner countries invest 0.25% of their GDP in the defense of Ukraine, providing assistance while bolstering European security. Kyiv is also advancing the production of UAV interceptor drones, which have already downed dozens of enemy Shahed drones. The president noted that Ukraine has already secured contracts for more artillery and various drones this year than ever before.

Meanwhile, American arms giant Raytheon, the world’s second-largest arms manufacturer, will continue to invest in the European production of air defense systems, including the Patriot. The company plans to enhance its cooperation with arms manufacturers from the EU and Ukraine.