Aiming Higher: Ukraine's Push for Self-Sufficient Missile Systems
Speed up the development of ballistic weapons, Zelensky urges Ukraine
President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the necessity of speeding up the establishment of Ukrainian ballistic missile systems, as stated in his May 2 address.
This declaration was made following a meeting with the Commander-in-Chief, during which Zelensky was informed about military supplies, staffing, and Ukraine's missile program, including domestic development and production.
"Our long-range capabilities are a solid and effective assurance of Ukraine's security," Zelensky asserted.
Long-range missiles have played a pivotal role in Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion. However, Western partners have been hesitant and slow to provide Ukraine with long-range missiles, fearing potential escalation.
Ukraine received its first supply of U.S. long-range missiles, specifically the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), in the fall of 2023, nearly a year after the invasion began. Initially, Ukraine was only allowed to deploy these missiles against targets within occupied Ukrainian lands.
Former U.S. President Joe Biden eased restrictions on Ukraine's use of ATACMS in November 2024, enabling Kyiv to launch them against military targets in Russia.
However, Ukraine reported a depletion of its ATACMS supply earlier this year. While it has received the British Storm Shadow and French SCALP missiles, the need for self-sustainability remains paramount.
Ukraine's drone production industry has been thriving, providing over 95% of drones used on the front line. Yet, the missile development program has been slower, with advances such as the successful testing of Ukraine's first domestically-made ballistic missile last year and the production of 100 such missiles.
The constraints imposed by Western reluctance and restrictions, coupled with limited missile supply, have underscored the importance of cultivating an indigenous missile program.
Insights:
- Successes and Challenges: Ukraine has successfully tested its first domestically-made ballistic missile, signaling significant advancements in its rocketry capabilities[5]. However, the development of its domestic missile program has been slower compared to other defense industries like drone production[3].
- International Support: Ukraine relies on international funding and support for its defense production, as seen in discussions with countries like Denmark[1].
- Notable Advancements: The unveiling of the "Bars" missile system is a significant leap in Ukraine's domestic rocketry capabilities[5].
- President Volodymyr Zelensky envisions self-sufficient missile systems as a crucial aspect of Ukraine's security, aiming for faster development and production in light of the country's ongoing challenges.
- The depletion of Ukraine's ATACMS missile supply earlier this year has further emphasized the need for self-sustainability in its missile program, which currently lags behind other defense industries such as drone production.
- To bridge the gap and minimize dependency on international support, Ukraine is making strides in indigenous missile development, notably with the successful testing of its first ballistic missile last year, with plans to produce 100 such missiles.
- In the broader context of war-and-conflicts, politics, and general news, the slow provision of long-range missiles from Western partners and the imposition of restrictions have highlighted the urgency for Ukraine to prioritize its native missile programs for self-reliance in defense capabilities.
