Ukraine is ramping up its defense efforts, testing four new domestically produced missile types.
This was said by President Volodymyr Zelensky in a recent interview with Ukrainian broadcasters.
Funds Already Secured
The president also highlighted advancements in naval drones and other technologies used in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
“We are testing four types of missiles, and progress is promising,” Zelensky stated. “Additionally, our naval drones have proven their effectiveness, having destroyed a significant number of Russian Black Sea Fleet vessels.”
Zelensky acknowledged challenges in drone and electronic warfare systems but expressed optimism about Ukraine’s progress, according to Ziare.
As part of its defense strategy, the Ukrainian government has allocated substantial resources to bolster domestic production.
The draft budget for next year dedicates 775 billion hryvnias (approximately $21 billion) exclusively to drones made in Ukraine.
“These funds are already secured, and they represent only our domestic investments,” Zelensky said. “We also have guaranteed financial support from our international partners.”
The president convened a meeting on November 16 to discuss strengthening Ukraine’s internal resilience. He revealed that more than 800 companies are currently engaged in manufacturing arms for the nation’s defense forces.
U.S.-Ukraine Collaboration on Modular Reactors
In another development, Ukraine and the United States jointly announced new initiatives involving small modular reactors (SMRs) during the COP29 climate conference in Baku. Backed by $30 million in funding, the projects aim to revolutionize Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, according to Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy.
The partnership, part of the FIRST program (Foundational Infrastructure for the Responsible Use of SMR Technology), includes three interrelated projects:
Clean Fuel Project: Developing a pilot plant for hydrogen and ammonia production.
Phoenix Project: Converting coal-fired power plants into SMR facilities.
Pure Steel Project: Crafting a roadmap to decarbonize Ukraine’s steel industry using SMR technology.
These projects will involve leading energy firms and research institutions from both nations. The ministry emphasized the benefits of SMR technology, noting its modular design, ease of transport, enhanced safety, and lower upfront investment compared to traditional nuclear plants.
