Ukraine targets missile autonomy amid air defense shortages

Ukraine is seeking to expand domestic military production to counter Russian ballistic missile strikes and reduce dependency on Western supplies. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed two local companies are developing indigenous ballistic missiles, though mass manufacturing faces ongoing technological delays. Additionally, licensing procedures and administrative hurdles with the United States mean local production of Patriot air defense systems will take between 12 months and several years to establish.

To manage immediate defense shortfalls, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are procuring the "Equalizer" precision glide bomb module. Developed by DG Industry through the Brave1 initiative, the wing and guidance kit converts standard unguided bombs into long-range precision munitions. The system is designed for operational deployment on Soviet-built MiG-29, Su-24, and Su-27 fighters, with planned integration for Western F-16 and Mirage aircraft.

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