Rustem Umerov: The launch of the State Operator for Non-Lethal Acquisition (DOT) has become a key element of defense procurement reform

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Rustem Umerov, presented the achievements of the State Operator for Non-Lethal Acquisition (DOT) during the event 'DOT: A Year of Supply Reform. 

“Exactly one year ago, the Ministry of Defence fundamentally transformed its approach to supplying our military. We have launched the State Operator for Non-Lethal Acquisition — a key element of defense procurement reform,” said the head of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.

During its year of operation, the DOT signed contracts worth approximately UAH 75 billion, saving more than UAH 17 billion in budget funds. In particular:

   •    UAH 7 billion was saved on food purchases;

   •    UAH 6.5 billion was saved on fuels and lubricants;

   •    UAH 3.7 billion was saved on gear and clothing.

During this period, the state has engaged 45 new suppliers to meet the Armed Forces' non-lethal needs. Furthermore, a modern DOT-Chain IT system has been launched, ensuring transparent and uninterrupted logistical support. To enhance the system's efficiency and trustworthiness, a supervisory board for the DOT was established, comprising Ukrainian and international experts.

“These changes have allowed the Ministry of Defence to focus on strategic management, policymaking, and oversight, while procurement responsibilities have been delegated to a specialized structure. I thank the entire State Operator for Non-Lethal Acquisition team, in particular Arsen Zhumadilov, for their professionalism and dedication. Together, we strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities and bring our victory closer!” Rustem Umerov emphasized.