Ukraine's secret arms factories: A beacon for the West amidst shortages
In Ukraine, currently embroiled in a conflict due to the Russian invasion, underground arms factories are operating at total capacity, Spain's "El Mundo" reported last Thursday. These factories might offer a solution for the West, which faces a weapons shortage.
The newspaper from Madrid highlighted that "Kyiv has transitioned into a pivotal manufacturing hub for Western armaments." It pointed out that traditional Ukrainian factories, which have been under constant threat since the Russian army's aggression in February 2022, have seen significant disruptions. The report also mentioned that these attacks have resulted in the loss of 100 factory workers.
In response to these challenges, Ukrainian authorities have ingeniously shifted and adapted the national arms industry. This revamped industry is now meeting orders in line with NATO standards. "El Mundo" revealed that Denmark and Canada are amongst Kyiv's prime customers, purchasing artillery systems and combat drones at a fraction of the cost in Western markets.
According to El Mundo, Ukraine has now become the world's foremost producer of helmets, bulletproof vests, and uniforms.
Oleksandr Kamyshev, the Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine, is a central figure in expanding this network of arms factories. Kamyshev has an extensive background, including a tenure as the president of Ukrainian Railways.
"El Mundo" estimates that under Kamyshev's coordination, the Ukrainian arms manufacturing network now includes 500 facilities, encompassing state-run and private enterprises catering to a broad spectrum of military orders.
"We are currently manufacturing not only ammunition but also a variety of sea and land drones, Kozak armoured personnel carriers, Neptun anti-ship missiles, and Stugna anti-tank missiles," the newspaper quotes a source from the Ukrainian arms sector. Furthermore, it noted a remarkable tripling in the production volume of Ukrainian arms since 2023.
This development underscores Ukraine's strategic pivot and resilience in the face of ongoing conflict. It significantly impacts the global arms market and offers new avenues for Western nations grappling with defence procurement challenges.
