Following the meeting of the Ukrainian Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format (UDCG), which took place today in Brussels, the Minister of Defense of Ukraine announced the creation of a new initiative in defense production together with partners, which should mark a “strategic shift”.
Umerov spoke at a press conference following the UDCG meeting, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.
According to the minister, the implementation of the idea with the working title “Ramstein Investment Initiative for Industry” will mark a strategic shift in defense production, allow Ukrainian companies to invest in production in the territories of partner countries, while partner countries will be able to build defense “mega-factories” in Ukraine.
“We don’t have a name yet. It is currently referred to as the “Ramstein Investment Initiative for Industry,” which means a strategic shift. With this initiative, Ukrainian companies can invest in UDCG partner countries, and partners from these countries will be able to build their mega-factories in Ukraine. We will produce drones, missiles, ammunition, and other types of weapons together. Ukrainian drones have changed the battlefield, and now they will bring changes to the preparedness of Ramstein member countries for future threats,” the Minister of Defense of Ukraine said.
He noted that the idea was a continuation of the initiative of Ukraine’s closest partners, who invest billions of euros in military aid to Ukraine, which allows for the creation of joint ventures and production of weapons for Ukraine’s needs on Ukraine’s soil.
The essence of the new idea is giving Ukrainian companies an opportunity to invest in the production of modern types of weapons under Ukrainian licenses on the territory of partner countries, which will provide them with access to the latest technologies. At the same time, at least until the end of the war, all defense products manufactured at such enterprises under Ukrainian licenses will be covering Ukraine’s defense needs. Interested partner countries within the UDCG are ready to take on the necessary financing of such work, Umerov added.
“The Ramstein investment initiative for industry is a major step forward in building a stronger defense for the free world. We hope that the initiative will see support within the EU SAFE program, which lays down EUR 150 billion for arms production. Our partners are ready to move forward. This is a win-win situation for everyone. Ukrainian companies will be able to invest in partner countries, and European or Euro-Atlantic companies will be able to build their factories in Ukraine. Ukrainian companies will have access to financing, defense technologies, and new production in strategic partnerships with global actors,” Umerov noted.
At the same time, according to the minister, Ukraine’s allies will have the opportunity to strengthen the capabilities of their own defense industry, and at the same time increase weapons supplies to Ukraine.
As reported, the EU recently approved the SAFE, Security Action for Europe, investment loan program with a capacity of EUR 150 billion, which will allow member states to quickly boost defense production and create conditions for joint defense procurement. This new EU financial instrument also opens up new opportunities for the development of Ukraine’s defense industry, which is increasingly integrated with European industry.
Source: UDCG meeting results: Umerov hints at strategic shift in defense production
