Ukraine: Unlock advanced tech to rival Russia’s mighty production.

TLDR: Ukrainian Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin stated in an interview that Ukraine cannot outperform Russia in terms of conventional weapons production and needs to focus on advanced technology. The country aims to build up its domestic industry and produce a homemade arsenal of drones and missiles. Drones, in particular, are seen as a crucial capability in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. President Volodymyr Zelensky has identified surpassing Russia in drone production as one of the main tasks for 2024. Ukraine is also seeking to attract foreign defense manufacturers to set up shop in the country. Rheinmetall, a leading German arms company, has already agreed to operate in Ukraine and aims to build the first armored vehicles on-site by summer 2024.

With over $100 billion in U.S. and EU aid stalled by internal political disputes, Ukraine has been focusing on revitalizing its domestic industry. Minister Kamyshin emphasized the importance of advanced technology, particularly drones, in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The cost-effectiveness and effectiveness of drones compared to conventional weapons make them a crucial capability for Ukraine.

President Zelensky has set the goal of surpassing Russia in drone production as one of the main tasks for 2024. The country aims to produce 1 million drones this year. Drone strikes against strategic targets within Russian territory have become more frequent in recent months.

Ukraine is also seeking to modify older Western arms and acquire U.S. licenses to maintain and produce provided weapons. The country is actively trying to attract foreign defense manufacturers to set up shop in Ukraine, emphasizing the advantages of operating in the country, such as an affordable workforce and the opportunity to test weaponry on the battlefield.

German arms company Rheinmetall has agreed to start operating in Ukraine and aims to build the first armored vehicles on-site by summer 2024. Ukrainian officials have also visited Northrop Grumman’s factory in the U.S. and invited U.K. producers to cooperate with Ukrainian counterparts.