Ukraine capable of producing nearly all types of conventional weapons – presidential advisor

Ukraine's Presidential Advisor Oleksandr Kamyshin said this at the 7th German-Ukrainian Business Forum, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

Speaking at a panel discussion dedicated to the defense industry, Kamyshin recalled that initially reliant on Soviet-era stockpiles at the outset of the war, the country now produces not only drones but also nearly all types of conventional weapons.

"This year, Ukraine will produce three times more weapons than the state can finance. Next year, the parity will remain similar, with the market volume expected to reach $30 billion," he said.

Kamyshin underscored the strategic nature of defense industry cooperation between Ukraine and Germany. The two nations have already held six bilateral events addressing this sector.

"Ukraine is also helping German industry to become stronger, and today we are laying the foundation for future cooperation, post-war, with Ukraine's victory," Kamyshin said.

He also stressed that a Ukrainian-German program, overseen by the newly created Ministry of National Unity, will begin early next year. This initiative aims to facilitate the return of Ukrainians to work domestically, including in defense manufacturing.

Kamyshin provided additional details about Ukraine's drone industry, which now includes over 200 manufacturers producing equipment for air, land, and sea combat.

"Today, we have effective solutions for both tactical drones, which operate at operational depths, and strategic drones. Last year, we developed a system capable of reaching targets in Russia at distances of up to 2,000 kilometers. This advanced product was designed and manufactured entirely in Ukraine. Currently, more than ten companies in Ukraine are producing such systems," he said.

Kamyshin also praised Ukraine's progress in developing drones capable of intercepting Shahed strike drones. These advancements are already in use, and solutions will soon be presented to the president in an upcoming "technological meeting."

He also mentioned the fulfillment of a key presidential task to produce one million drones in 2024, noting significant achievements in both product variety -- ranging from FPV drones to strategic systems for deep strikes-- and production volume. However, he pointed out that the main challenge is awarding contracts to manufacturers capable of ramping up production even further.

The 7th German-Ukrainian Business Forum was held in Berlin on December 11 with the participation of the prime ministers of both countries.