-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Ivan Khomenko")
Ukraine’s defense industry has manufactured more than 100 missiles so far in 2024, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In his daily address, he highlighted Ukraine’s strides in various arms production areas, including artillery, drones, and missiles.
“These are our production facilities, our strategic industries, our weapons,” Zelenskyy said. “This year, we’ve achieved significant results in multiple sectors. Our artillery, shells, cannons, and drones—used for different tasks—not only help defend the front lines but also strike deep into Russian territory. We’ve now crossed the mark of 100 missiles produced this year, and we’ll continue to scale up production.”
Currently, over 800 companies are involved in arms production for Ukraine’s defense forces, according to Zelenskyy. He emphasized that for the first time in over 30 years of independence, Ukraine has consistent investment models for defense production.
He cited partnerships with Denmark, which has been investing in production facilities, and a new model with France, incorporating technology and localized manufacturing. Additionally, preliminary agreements are underway with other partners to localize weapon manufacturing in Ukraine.
In early August, Ukraine’s government allocated additional funds to support its missile production program. By the end of September, it was reported that part of the credit funds from the European Union, secured through frozen Russian assets, would be directed toward purchasing domestically-produced long-range missiles and drones.
Neptune Missile and Other Missile Programs
Before the full-scale invasion, Ukraine had various missile programs in development, including the Neptune anti-ship cruise missile. In April 2023, it was revealed that Ukraine was adapting the Neptune missile for land-based targets.
The new version, with a maximum range of 400 kilometers and a 350-kilogram warhead, includes upgraded guidance systems, satellite navigation, and infrared homing capabilities for improved accuracy.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces have since utilized Neptune missiles in attacks on oil terminals, ammunition depots, and air defense systems. Other notable targets included airfields and Russia’s S-400 Triumf systems in Crimea.
In late August, Ukraine successfully tested its first ballistic missile, according to Zelenskyy. The president mentioned that Ukraine is progressing toward deploying these domestically-developed ballistic missiles, marking a significant milestone in the country’s defense capabilities.
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