Ukraine to Produce Its Own Cruise and Ballistic Missiles by Next Year, Says Spetstechnoexport Director
Date: November 2, 2024
Source: OBOZ.UA
Ukraine is advancing in the development and production of its own cruise and ballistic missiles, with projections suggesting these weapons could be deployed by the country’s Defense Forces as early as next year. This ambitious update was shared by Oleksiy Petrov, Director of Spetstechnoexport, a state-owned enterprise specializing in defense exports and arms production.
In an interview with OBOZ.UA, Petrov stated that he has personally witnessed successful flight tests of these missiles, indicating positive progress. “Both the state and the private sector are making strides in this direction,” he noted, commending the decision to open the missile industry to private enterprises. Petrov expressed optimism that Ukraine will have its own cruise and ballistic missiles operational by mid-2025.
Key Developments in Ukrainian Arms Production
Ukraine is not only developing missiles but also ramping up the domestic production of other essential military equipment. Notably, Ukrainian manufacturers have started producing NATO-standard 155mm shells, which Petrov described as effective for long-range combat. Additionally, the country’s defense sector is working to maintain and expand the production of Soviet-standard ammunition, which is still in demand for current operations.
Petrov highlighted the importance of 152mm and 122mm shells, which are in constant shortage due to high usage by Ukrainian forces. The 152mm shells, capable of reaching targets 30 km away, are especially critical in Ukraine’s ongoing defense efforts.
Achievements and Future Goals in Defense Innovation
The Ukrainian defense sector has seen several milestones recently:
• Domestically-produced UAVs have reportedly destroyed over 200 military targets in Russia, some located more than 1,000 km from the Ukrainian border, according to Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
• During a recent G7 defense ministers’ meeting in Naples, Italy, Umerov invited international investment in Ukraine’s defense industry.
• Umerov also hinted at further revelations concerning Ukraine’s missile program, with details expected by the end of this year or in 2025.
Ukraine’s defense sector continues to innovate, reinforcing its arsenal with advanced technologies and localizing production to reduce reliance on foreign supplies.
