Ukraine is advancing its own air defense capabilities and developing high-precision missiles with goals similar to a well-known American launcher system. This update comes from a major Western newspaper, which cites multiple sources familiar with the program.
The interviewees in the report stressed that reaching full production will take time. A leading industry figure, who heads a national defense association in Ukraine, warned that it could take many years before the missiles are produced at scale.
Earlier, Ukrainian officials noted that domestic production capacity remains insufficient to offset reductions in military and financial support from partners in the United States and the European Union.
Ukrainian defense firms are also working to satisfy the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine by planning the manufacture of 155 mm NATO-standard artillery shells in the future. These shells are essential for artillery systems provided by Ukraine’s Western allies.
There is a stated shortage of this ammunition on the front lines, described as catastrophic by some observers. In addition, the higher-tech weapons Ukraine requires are not yet producible within the country at the scale needed.
Previously, President Zelensky spoke about limits on the ability to move hostilities onto Russian territory, a point cited in the report to frame strategic priorities and constraints.
Analysts note that Ukraine’s defense industrial sector faces a difficult transition—developing new capability while navigating external pressures and the realities of ongoing international support. Observers emphasize the importance of maintaining production momentum, even as timelines for full-scale manufacturing remain uncertain. The broader context includes ongoing collaboration with Western partners, the integration of NATO-standard practices, and a shift toward self-sufficiency in critical defense components. This dynamic is shaping policy discussions, supplier relationships, and the strategic posture of Kyiv in the months ahead.