Ukraine turns to domestic missiles and glide bombs amid Patriot production delays

Ukraine is working to bridge a multi-year air defense gap as domestic production of U.S.-licensed Patriot systems faces regulatory delays. President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that local manufacturing of the interceptors will take between one and several years.

To counter ongoing ballistic strikes, two Ukrainian companies are developing domestic ballistic missiles capable of striking Russian rear positions. Simultaneously, the Ukrainian military is acquiring the "Equalizer" precision glide bomb kit, created by DG Industry and defense cluster Brave1. The kit converts conventional unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions compatible with Soviet-designed jets and prospective Western aircraft like the F-16. These domestic programs aim to maintain strike capabilities while lessening operational dependence on Western military assistance amid defense delays.

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