Ukrainian arms may become most competitive, Kyiv needs to increase production – expert

Serhiy Pashynsky, former MP and chairman of the Association of Defense Enterprises, said in an interview with LB.ua.

According to him, the country is facing major challenges. They will not disappear even after the end of the war.

"President Zelenskyy was right: we will have to live like Israel lives. Maybe like South Korea. We must always, at any time, be ready to fight back... I can tell you that after the war is over, neither Luch Design Bureau with its Corsars and Stuhnas (guided anti-tank missiles), Neptunes (anti-ship cruise missiles), nor the manufacturers of our drones, Lelekas, PD-2, SHARK, nor the manufacturers of Bohdana howitzer, will stop," Pashynsky explained.

He stressed that even the United States, when it produces the latest F-35 fighter jet, does so in cooperation with its allies.

"To ensure military, political and economic contacts, we need to do the same," the former MP said.

Pashynsky noted that Ukrainian defense companies have launched the production of 122-mm shells and 120-mm mines in cooperation with international partners. This will enable the country to develop after the war together with its new military and political allies.

"Before the large-scale invasion, we had no military and political allies. Yes, there were some countries that came to us and held some talks. Putin's invasion was a watershed. And I have no doubt that we are now connected to the countries of Eastern Europe for at least 10 years," he said.

Ukraine should definitely focus on the development of 155 mm artillery, as there is already a success story here, he said.

"We definitely have a need to develop, modernize and modify ATGM systems, our Stugna anti-tank systems, because they are among the best in the world, and this is recognized by everyone. We also have the unique experience of being the first in the world to use maritime drones. This has never happened before. Today, our manufacturers have accumulated various huge tactical groups of drones. From small ‘kamikazes’ to tactical drones that can conduct reconnaissance or strike behind enemy lines. We have no right not to develop all this. At the same time, there are more sophisticated systems, for example, the Ukrainian domestic anti-aircraft missile system. Is it possible or not? I responsibly declare that yes, it is possible. We need a little cooperation with our international partners," the former MP explained.

At the same time, Pashynsky stressed that Ukraine has the potential to become one of the "top competitive manufacturers in the world".

"Our Neptune, our Stuhna, our Bohdana - I won't say that these are the best. But it is competitive. And I know for a fact that these weapons systems will be in demand all over the world. Accordingly, we will need to increase production, we will need experienced personnel. And we will need to develop," he concluded.