Ukraine is determined to increase its drone production to tens of thousands every month by the end of the year.

Despite the ongoing challenges posed by Russian attacks, according to the Minister for Strategic Industries. Drones have become a vital component in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, employed extensively by both sides for reconnaissance and offensive operations. To bolster their efforts, Kyiv has focused on ramping up production, albeit relying heavily on foreign-made drone engines.

Oleksandr Kamyshin, the minister overseeing Ukraine’s defence industry, revealed these ambitious plans at a NATO Industry Forum held in Stockholm. Although precise current production figures were not disclosed, Kamyshin suggested that the number was currently in the thousands per month. He stated, “By the end of this year, it would be dozens of thousands a month. And that’s something we grow even faster than conventional warfare ammunition and warfare weapons.”

As the war persists, Ukraine seeks to increase local manufacturing of various military equipment and munitions to ensure a stable and swift supply chain. Russian drone and missile attacks across the nation pose an additional challenge.

Kamyshin emphasised their progress in producing munitions: “Speaking about shells, for instance, we produce times more now than for the whole of last year.” He added that they had developed a model for production that could continue even under enemy shelling.

In addition to their domestic efforts, Ukrainian officials hope to collaborate with Western arms producers to reinvigorate their arms industry and boost their economy. Kamyshin revealed a surge of interest from Western defence companies and announced a joint venture with German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, paving the way for future partnerships and local production facilities.