Ukraine to Export Domestically Produced Weapons After Martial Law Restrictions Lifted
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that Ukraine will begin exporting weapons produced within the country, reversing restrictions that were put in place when martial law was declared. Speaking at the UN General Assembly in New York, Zelenskyy emphasized the effectiveness and reliability of Ukrainian-made weaponry, inviting international partners to leverage Ukraine's advancements in defense technology.
"We decided to open our arms exports. These are powerful systems tested in real war," Zelenskyy stated, highlighting the battle-proven nature of the systems available for export. He further added that Ukraine is ready to share its experience and effective defense solutions with its partners, eliminating the need for them to "start from scratch."
The decision to lift export restrictions, which had been in place since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, comes after months of requests from Ukrainian arms producers. These producers, particularly those specializing in drone technology, sought to generate more revenue through exports. The timing of the announcement coincides with heightened concerns over airspace violations allegedly committed by Russia into neighboring countries like Poland and Estonia, making Ukraine's offer of advanced defense systems particularly relevant.
The Evolving Nature of Modern Warfare
Zelenskyy addressed the UN, emphasizing the rapid evolution of weapons technology and the challenges this poses to global security. He highlighted the proliferation of drone technology and the increasing accessibility of sophisticated weaponry, stating that "weapons are evolving faster than our ability to defend ourselves."
He pointed out the growing number of individuals skilled in using drones for offensive purposes, noting the difficulty in countering such attacks compared to traditional weapons. Zelenskyy attributed this shift in the landscape of warfare to Russia's actions, stating that even simple drones can now travel vast distances.
Ukraine's Booming Defense Industry
Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine's defense industry, especially its drone sector, has experienced rapid growth. This expansion represents a significant upgrade from the country's previous reliance on Soviet-era military hardware.
Recent reports indicate that Ukraine is currently producing over 4 million drones annually, with the potential to double that number if sufficient funding is secured. Approximately 800 arms producers are currently operating within Ukraine, with over 200 specializing in drone production. These systems are often adaptable and affordable, playing a transformative role in modern warfare.
What Weapons Will Ukraine Export?
Ukraine has developed preliminary plans for the "controlled export" of various weapons, with a particular focus on sea drones. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of maritime security, stating that "the security of sea routes is an integral part of overall security, and many nations depend on it." He offered Ukraine's proven solutions to partners, referencing their effectiveness in the Black Sea.
Ukraine's naval drone fleet has been expanding in recent years, with notable success in targeting Russian military assets and ships in the Black Sea. The Magura-V5 drones, for example, have been instrumental in these operations. In addition, Ukraine recently unveiled the Toloka underwater drone system, capable of carrying a substantial payload and reaching targets at a considerable range.
Industry Calls for Export Liberalization
In May, Ukrainian defense manufacturers sent a formal request to President Zelenskyy, urging him to lift export restrictions on domestically produced military-grade equipment, particularly drones. The manufacturers argued that easing restrictions would foster growth in the sector and facilitate better integration into Europe's security framework.
The letter emphasized the opportunity for Ukraine to transition from being a recipient of international support to a full-fledged partner that exports security through cooperation, technology, and its own experience. Manufacturers highlighted the increasing demand for innovative and affordable technological solutions to bolster defense capabilities. They emphasized that Ukraine's defense industry, honed under constant battlefield conditions, is already producing the technologies the world seeks.
Oleksandr Kamyshin, an advisor to Zelenskyy on strategic issues, estimated that Ukraine's defense industry could potentially produce up to €17 billion worth of equipment in 2024, although government funding would only cover approximately half of that amount. Former Minister for Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin noted that Ukrainian producers are capable of increasing output and production, but require funding and long-term commitments from partners. Export revenue is viewed as a critical means of financing growth, attracting foreign investment, and maintaining domestic defense as a top priority.
Potential Buyers and Partnerships
Ukraine intends to prioritize defense technology exports and establish weapons production lines in partner countries. Zelenskyy outlined plans for three new export platforms: one focused on the United States, another for European partners, and a third for global partners who have supported Ukraine.
Deals are already in motion. In July, Zelenskyy said he'd reached an agreement with the US for the sale of Ukrainian drones, with the contract estimated to be worth between $10 billion and $30 billion. A significant deal was also signed with US company Swift Beat to co-produce hundreds of thousands of drones.
Furthermore, Germany has expressed its intention to collaborate with Ukraine in the development of new long-range weapons capable of striking deeper into Russia, supported by a €5 billion aid package. Germany aims to "enable joint production" of weapons with Ukraine, marking the beginning of a new era of military-industrial cooperation between the two countries.
The Imperative of Defense
Concluding his remarks at the UN General Assembly, Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's need to develop drone technology to protect its right to life. He argued that investing in defense now is more cost-effective than dealing with the consequences of failing to do so. He stated, "stopping this war now and within the global arms race is cheaper than building underground kindergartens or massive bunkers for critical infrastructure later."
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