Rustem Umerov: Ukraine ready to assist defence companies and participate in joint projects

Minister of Defence of Ukraine Rustem Umerov held a meeting in Kyiv with representatives of the German defence industry. The event was attended by more than 20 leading German companies shaping the future of European security.

“Ukraine is actively developing industrial defence projects both within the country and jointly with international partners abroad,” stated Rustem Umerov.

“The scale of russian aggression continues to grow. Together with our allies, we are constantly seeking new and effective solutions to strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities,” noted the Ukrainian Minister of Defence.

During the meeting, Rustem Umerov presented key initiatives in the field of defence industry.

In particular, a project aimed at attracting investment into domestic production was discussed. Ukraine’s defence industry is already capable of manufacturing up to 10 million drones per year, and with proper funding, can produce even more advanced strike systems.

The Minister of Defence also informed the participants about the initiative for joint arms production with partners in the Ramstein format, announced by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. It envisages combining Ukrainian technologies with partner production capacities to scale up the output of everything required by the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

“Our goal is to establish effective cooperation. The state is ready to assist companies in finding partners in Ukraine and to directly participate in joint projects, including through co-investments and the creation of joint ventures,” emphasised Rustem Umerov.

He outlined the priority areas where Ukraine requires support:

• drones and long-range weaponry
• electronic warfare and communication systems
• air defence
• armoured vehicles
• software.

“I am grateful to the government and people of Germany, and to German companies, for their unwavering support for Ukraine. Your assistance saves lives. I am confident that ahead lie new joint projects that will strengthen both Ukraine and the whole of Europe,” concluded the Minister of Defence of Ukraine.