Ukraine seeks domestic missile production amid air defense shortages

Following heavy Russian ballistic missile strikes, Ukraine is accelerating efforts to develop domestic defense capabilities amid severe interceptor shortages. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that two local companies are developing indigenous ballistic missiles, while efforts to establish U.S.-licensed manufacturing of Patriot air defense systems face bureaucratic delays that could span several years.

To address immediate vulnerabilities, Ukraine is procuring the "Equalizer" precision glide bomb kit developed by DG Industry and Brave1. The system converts standard unguided aircraft bombs into long-range precision weapons compatible with Soviet-designed jets such as the MiG-29 and Su-24, with future integration planned for F-16 and Mirage fighters. The initiative aims to maintain standoff strike capacity and offset delays in Western air defense deliveries.

Sources: NEXTA, NV, Point, The Insider, Українська правда