Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the capacity of the Ukrainian defence industry has increased sixfold. In particular, we are talking about the production of drones, ammunition, and demining machines. Yuliya Svyrydenko, First Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Economy, said in an interview with LB.ua.
"Producing weapons in Ukraine means delivering them to the frontline faster, repairing them and, consequently, saving lives. And, of course, this is also an opportunity to support the economy. If at least half of the budget we spend on arms purchases remained in Ukraine, we would get a 3.6% increase in GDP growth," the minister said.
She also said that the first joint venture between Ukroboronprom and Germany's Rheinmetall for the repair and production of armoured vehicles has recently been launched in Ukraine. The next step, according to Svyrydenko, will be the repair of Leopard tanks in Ukraine and the localisation of Lynx infantry fighting vehicle production.
In addition, the creation of joint defence enterprises was discussed during the International Conference on Ukraine's Recovery held in Berlin on 11-12 June, the minister added.