The Ukrainian defense industry has received an unprecedented assessment from the leadership of the European Union. During the European Summit on Defense and Security in Brussels, European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius stated that the development of Ukraine's military-industrial complex (MIC) has become a key factor in the country's adaptation to the realities of modern warfare.
Recognition at the highest level
Kubilius emphasized that the reputation of the Ukrainian army as the strongest in Europe, previously mentioned by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, is based not only on the courage of soldiers and the talent of commanders. According to the European Commissioner, the foundation of this success is an innovative and effective defense industry.
"But why do they consider the Ukrainian army the best? My answer: not only because Ukraine has brave soldiers and smart commanders, but also because its defense industry is the best and the most innovative," Kubilius stated.
Exponential growth of capacities
As a vivid example, the official cited the explosive growth in drone production following the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. The ability to quickly implement new technologies allowed the Ukrainian Armed Forces to gain a critical advantage on the battlefield.
The statistics announced in Brussels are impressive: since 2022, Ukraine has increased defense production volumes by 50 times. Today, Ukraine's defense industry is capable of producing output at a level that Germany or France would produce in an entire year.
Call for integration and lessons for the EU
Andrius Kubilius urged the European Union not just to support Ukraine, but to integrate it into the common defense industry and the future European Defense Union. He strongly recommended that EU member states adopt the Ukrainian experience of rapid scaling of weapons production.
Particular attention was paid to the gap in production rates between Russia and Europe. Kubilius noted that Russia still produces more defense products than the entire European Union, creating serious risks for the security of the continent.
"This creates a temptation for Putin. National parliaments must ask their governments: why are our defense industries not increasing production volumes despite increased funding?" the European Commissioner emphasized.
International cooperation and new contracts
The Ukrainian defense sector is actively expanding its geography of partnerships. Joint drone production projects with Norway, the Netherlands, Romania, and Germany have already been launched.
The practical results of cooperation have become evident. At the ILA Berlin 2026 exhibition, the German concern MBDA and the company "Ukrainian Armored Vehicles" signed a strategic agreement on the development of long-range strike systems. Market participants forecast high demand for these developments on a global scale.