Ukraine is developing its own ballistic missile program and establishing a missile defense system in cooperation with its partners

Ukraine continues to actively promote the idea of developing its own ballistic weapons and a pan-European anti-ballistic system, despite competition in the defense sector and resistance from certain countries. 

The emergence of a new powerful player in the arms market is causing concern in many countries due to financial and political factors. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this in an interview with the “Yedyni Novyny” telethon.

The head of state noted that it is not only Russia that does not want to see Ukraine’s own ballistic capabilities—for entirely understandable reasons—but also other international actors driven by their own business interests. Despite behind-the-scenes difficulties and the complexity of this idea, the president expressed confidence that he will ultimately be able to push it through.

At the same time, Kyiv is laying the groundwork for collective defense against missile threats and has already reached official agreements with Sweden on joint work on a European anti-ballistic system. Sweden has become the first major strategic partner in the project, and over the summer, the Ukrainian side expects to bring in several more countries, finalize the agreements, and move directly to practically addressing ballistic challenges.

Tests of the new European air defense system Freya, which is considered a more affordable alternative to the American Patriot system, may begin in Ukraine in the near future.