Ukraine is making strategic moves to strengthen its defense capabilities and emerge as a new leader in military technology. This was stated by Valery Ryabykhmilitary expert and editor of the publication Defense Expressin an interview Radio NV.
According to him, Ukraine in the defense industry follows the trajectory of Israel, which was able to turn its unique developments into a tool for strengthening its position on the world stage.
Israel as an example for Ukraine
According to Ryabykh, Ukraine is following the same path as Israel at one time. Israel started from a vulnerable position in the face of constant threats, but has created a powerful defense industry that has become the guarantor of its security and influence.
“Israel has evolved to the point where its defense industry has become the basis for global partnerships. The more powerful Ukraine becomes, the more it will be perceived as a serious player,” – noted the expert.
Israel was able to prove its worth to the United States by providing effective tools to stabilize regions. Ukraine is also moving in this direction, offering strong and promising solutions to its partners.
Ukrainian defense industry: from crisis to leadership
The Ukrainian military-industrial complex (DIC) has shown tremendous growth in recent years. If before the war the export of products amounted to a maximum $2 billionthen now we are talking about the sale of defense products at $37 billion.
These figures confirm that Ukraine is doing everything possible to strengthen its independence.
“Now even the figure of 30 billion is only a part of our capabilities,” – Ryabykh emphasized.
Impressive achievements of the defense industry in recent years
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| November 16, 2023 | The state-owned plant has launched mass production of an analogue of the Iranian Shahed-136 drone. |
| April 2024 | Production Self-propelled gun “Bogdana” reached 10 units per month, which is three times more than pre-war figures. |
| August 8, 2024 | The production of drones in Ukraine has increased 100 times. |
| October 1, 2024 | Flight tests of the first Ukrainian ballistic missile were successful. |
| October 5, 2024 | Approved for use over 900 weaponsof which 600 – domestic production. |
Strategic Plans: Focus on Technology
Minister of Defense of Ukraine Rustem Umerov stated that the country will continue to increase the production of high-tech weapons, including:
- Drones.
- Ranged weapons.
- Ballistic missiles.
Particular attention is paid to the development of the missile program. According to the minister, by the beginning of 2025 detailed information about achievements in this area will be published.
“The more opportunities we offer, the higher the respect we will have from the world community,” – Umerov noted.
Analogies with Israel: lessons from independence
Ukraine is adopting key aspects of the Israeli model:
- Bet on your own developments.
Israel has managed to minimize its dependence on imports, which has allowed it to become a leader in the field of unique technologies. Ukraine is following the same path, increasing the production of armored vehicles, artillery and missiles.
- Development of nuclear technologies.
According to Ryabykh, Ukraine may consider the development of nuclear technology as part of its containment strategy.
“This factor should be taken into account by those who think about the future of the world,” – the expert emphasized.
What does this mean for Ukraine?
Ryabykh argues that Ukraine is ceasing to be a country that only receives aid. Today it is becoming a strong player, capable of offering unique technologies and solutions to its partners.
How does this strengthen independence?
- Increasing trust of partners.
Ukraine is proving that it is capable of independently producing high-class weapons.
- Job creation.
More 300 thousand people are involved in the defense industry, which supports the country's economy.
- Export of technologies.
Defense products are becoming export goods, which strengthens Ukraine’s position in world markets.
Conclusion
Ukraine is actively building a new defense strategy, following the Israeli example. As Valery Ryabykh emphasized, strengthening the defense power opens up new opportunities for the country and increases its international authority.
“They help those who act, not those who wait,” – the expert concluded.
Read more about the prospects of Ukraine on the website NAnews.