Denmark has become the first country to buy weapons and equipment for Ukraine's Armed Forces from a domestic manufacturer as part of a military aid package, Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin announced on April 18. The Danish Defense Ministry announced on April 16 a new 2.2 billion kroner ($313 million) military aid package for Ukraine. The package includes 200 million Danish kroner ($28.5 million) earmarked for purchases from Ukraine's defense industry.
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Ukroboromprom Ukrainian defense holding on EuroSatory 2016 (Picture source Олег Яровый )

"This is the first and so far unprecedented decision to purchase military products from Ukrainian manufacturers at the expense of another country," the Strategic Industries Ministry, Oleksandr Kamyshin, said in a statement.

"This decision is crucial for the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the Ukrainian economy. The production capability of our defense industry far exceeds the purchasing power of the state budget."

Ukraine's defense industry is a significant part of its national security infrastructure, characterized by various companies known for their innovation and resilience. Among the most prominent is Ukroboronprom, a state-owned conglomerate that includes over 100 enterprises across various sectors of defense production. Notable subsidiaries under Ukroboronprom include Antonov, famed for its cargo and transport aircraft such as the An-225 Mriya, the largest airplane in the world until its destruction in 2022. Another key player is Malyshev Factory, based in Kharkiv, which produces the T-84 Oplot, a highly advanced battle tank prized for its firepower and protective armor. Additionally, Motor Sich is recognized globally for manufacturing engines that power helicopters and airplanes, crucial for both military and civilian use
According to Kamyshin, Ukraine's defense industry has a capacity worth around $20 billion, but the state only has a budget of $6 billion to purchase weapons and equipment.

Ukraine aims for foreign partners to invest around $10 billion into producing Ukrainian weapons in 2024 as part of a new campaign called Zbroyari: Manufacturing Freedom, Kamyshin said. Denmark is the first country to donate to the campaign, opening "the way for other countries," Kamyshin said. We can expect other countries to join this initative.

Defense News April 2024