Air defense, munitions, and investments in the defense sector: Sergiy Boyev discusses Ukraine's critical needs with the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Sergiy Boyev met with Jon Fredriksen, Director of the Department for Security Policy at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to discuss the current security situation and Ukraine's critical needs for 2025.

One of the key topics of the meeting was the global political landscape and the security situation in Europe. The Norwegian side acknowledged the necessity for European countries to increase their investment in security and defense and to expand their defense industry.

“Ukraine's defense industry has reached a capacity of $35 billion, with drones, ammunition, and missiles as its primary products. Nonetheless, we still rely on our partners for the supply of certain types of weapons, making it essential for the European defense industry to scale up,” said Sergiy Boyev.

The Ukrainian side briefed partners on the current situation at the front and shared intelligence on the aggressor country's plans. This information enables joint planning of projects essential for strengthening defense capabilities, including collaborative manufacturing.

Sergiy Boyev briefed Jon Fredriksen on Ukraine's critical needs, including interceptor missiles for air defense and missile defense systems, ammunition, heavy armored vehicles, and investments in the defense industry. The formation and equipping of the Nordic-Baltic Brigade also remains one of the key priorities.

The Deputy Minister also shared the initial outcomes of the opening of the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training, and Education Centre (JATEC) in Poland, which will enhance the training program for military personnel.

“Norway is on the list of countries that Russia could invade, which is why we are acutely aware of all the threats. “Europe requires Ukraine and its experience, and therefore must learn from it and strengthen shared capabilities,” said Jon Fredriksen, Director of the Department for Security Policy at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.