Ukraine launches an international initiative for joint weapons production in partner countries participating in the ‘Ramstein’ format

Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov announced the launch of a new international initiative for the joint production of Ukrainian weapons in countries participating in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (‘Ramstein’ format). 

He made this announcement following the latest meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.

The initiative provides for the establishment of licensed production lines for Ukrainian weapons in partner countries to address the immediate needs of the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

“Some of our closest partners — those providing billions in military assistance — are consistently offering to host production facilities for modern Ukrainian weapons in their countries. These partners are ready to manufacture Ukrainian-designed weapons under official license in their own countries,” said Rustem Umerov.

The Minister of Defence stressed that ensuring the Ukrainian military is fully equipped remains the top priority:

“Partners also affirmed that all output from such facilities will be allocated to meet the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as long as the war continues. They are prepared to fully finance these production facilities and are even considering additional funding.”

Leading weapons manufacturers from Europe and North America are expected to join the initiative, which is supported by funding from the European SAFE program, envisioning €150 billion for defense industry development.

“This initiative marks a significant strategic breakthrough. Together, we will produce drones, missiles, ammunition, Electronic Warfare (EW) systems, and other types of weaponry,” said Rustem Umerov.

Several projects are already underway:

• A Western European company announced the production of modern anti-Shahed missiles in Ukraine;
• The United Kingdom and Ukraine are launching joint production of LMM missiles and launchers;
• Rheinmetall (Germany) is building modern Lynx combat vehicles in Ukraine;
• Ukrainian companies are manufacturing ammunition under license from Nammo (Norway–Finland);
• SAAB (Sweden), Kongsberg (Norway), KNDS (France–Germany), FFG (Germany), and Raytheon (USA) are actively expanding their presence in Ukraine.

The new initiative offers a mutually beneficial cooperation model: Ukraine’s defense industry will gain access to foreign financing, advanced technologies, new production facilities, and strategic partnerships with leading market players. In turn, partners strengthen their industrial potential and contribute to Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

“Now is the time for Ukrainian companies to expand their global presence — with production focused on supporting Ukraine,” Rustem Umerov concluded.