Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Dmytro Klimenkov said that in addition to military assistance to Ukraine, NATO countries are also restoring the capacity of their defence industries to increase their own stockpiles of weapons. The Alliance clearly understands the threat posed by Russia.
The representative of the Ukrainian defence ministry said this during a telethon, Ukrinform reports.
"Our partners are quite aware of the real threat from Russia. Therefore, they are gradually turning, so to speak, to face the military-industrial complex. NATO partners are simultaneously pursuing two goals - to increase their own stockpiles of weapons and, of course, to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine," Klimenkov said.
Klimenkov adds that NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg recently stated that the allies have increased ammunition production to replenish their stockpiles and to ensure supplies to Ukraine. In addition, NATO has signed a contract to purchase 220,000 rounds of 155 mm ammunition worth $1.2 billion.
"NATO has ordered ammunition worth a total of about $10 billion. This is quite a large amount, and in addition to the above ammunition, NATO has decided to spend another $5.5 billion on 1,000 Patriot missiles and $4 billion on artillery shells, anti-tank guided missiles, tank ammunition, etc. NATO also decided to purchase six reconnaissance aircraft," Klimenkov said.
According to the deputy defence minister, such actions by the Alliance demonstrate the industry's ability to both strengthen NATO and provide for Ukraine.