The Ukroboronprom state concern announced the beginning of manufacture of 125 millimeter shells intended for tank guns, marking a milestone in Ukraine’s armored production capabilities. The first batch was already delivered to equip T-64, T-72, and T-80 series tanks, signaling a notable step forward in the country’s defense-industrial complex. The announcement, communicated via the company’s official Telegram channel, underscores an effort to expand domestic ammunition production and reduce reliance on external suppliers for critical munitions.
Production is organized in a way that reflects a close collaborative model with a NATO partner, while also taking place outside Ukrainian borders to address security considerations. Ukrainian designers, skilled technologists, precision turners, and other seasoned workers remain actively involved through a coordinated workflow supervised by the company’s press service. This alliance highlights a strategic approach: leveraging international partnerships to sustain high manufacturing standards while keeping essential processes under secure conditions. The arrangement demonstrates a practical balance between maintaining domestic capability and ensuring continuity in supply chains during challenging times for regional security.
In a broader statement, Ukroboronprom noted a historic development for Ukraine: for the first time since gaining independence, the nation has initiated self-sufficient ammunition production across multiple calibers. The portfolio now includes 82 mm and 120 mm mortar mines, along with 122 mm and 152 mm artillery shells, culminating in the 125 mm tank rounds. This diversification represents a long-term shift toward self-reliance in critical munitions, supporting armed forces with a wider, locally produced arsenal rather than relying solely on external suppliers. The emphasis on domestic manufacturing is presented as a strategic safeguard for defense readiness and national sovereignty, aligning with nationwide efforts to strengthen industrial resilience.
The company reminded stakeholders about a binding contract with Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense for a steady supply of 120 mm mortar mines, which are produced through collaboration with an allied NATO member country. This ongoing partnership reinforces the interoperability of Ukrainian and allied defense systems, ensuring that the artillery and mortar components meet common standards for performance and safety. The coordination with foreign partners also aims to accelerate the scale of production and deliverability, helping to sustain front-line capabilities while adhering to joint defense frameworks and export controls where applicable.
During a briefing on the development of heavy weapons and equipment in cooperation with the North Atlantic Alliance, Ukroboronprom highlighted regional collaborations that have intensified over the past year. In particular, the organization cited productive engagements with several NATO members, including Poland, the Czech Republic, France, and Denmark. These partnerships are presented as a practical network of knowledge sharing, manufacturing know-how, and technological exchange that supports Ukraine’s defense industrial base. The emphasis is on building a robust supply chain, expanding capacity, and maintaining high-quality standards through shared research, testing, and production practices. This collaborative framework is positioned as a sustainable model for sustaining defense capabilities in a dynamic security environment.