Zelensky Orders to Ramp Up the Production of Interceptor Drones and Accelerate the Development of Ukraine’s Ballistic Missile Program
In the context of strengthening the country's defense capabilities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delegated new strategic tasks in the defense industry sphere. At the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s meeting held on May 26, the head of state outlined the necessity of significantly increasing the production of interceptor drones capable of disrupting enemy drones and missile targets. This signals to the Ukrainian military and manufacturers that the government is focusing on developing modern countermeasure and defense systems. According to a source in the summary from the meeting, discussions involved a detailed analysis of Russian strikes, studying the tactics of Russian drones and cruise missiles, and identifying directions for rapid response. Zelensky emphasized that all these measures require not only technological modernization but also strengthened financial support from the state and international partners. This will enable a focus on manufacturing high-tech systems capable of neutralizing current threats. In his address to the meeting participants, the president noted: “I have instructed to significantly increase our interceptor drone production and also to attract additional funding from our partners for this purpose. We are preparing relevant updates so everyone is informed about the progress.” He also stressed the need to accelerate work on developing Ukrainian ballistic missiles, which have long been awaited by Ukrainian defense. According to him, a series of additional decisions regarding the funding of Ukraine’s ballistic missile program have been adopted, which will allow for a substantial optimization of missile production rates and will increase the country’s defensive potential. Furthermore, during the meeting, operational tactical data were reviewed, reported Vasyl Maliuk, head of the Security Service of Ukraine. Zelensky stated that the results of the security services' work are positive: “We have seen progress in countering Russian attacks and received valuable information for further strengthening our country’s defense capacity.” The president succinctly summarized: “Thank you for your work. Together, we are doing everything possible to ensure Ukraine’s security and independence.” Thus, the current decisions by the authorities indicate a strategic reorientation towards innovative defense technologies and strengthening domestic production. In the context of war and constant provocations by Russia, Ukraine is taking steps toward future technological armament. This is part of a broader government program aimed at strengthening the defense system, reducing dependence on imported systems, and developing its own advanced protective means. It is expected that implementing these measures will enable the Ukrainian army to achieve the necessary confidence in countering Russian aggression and will provide a more sustainable defense front in the future.