Edited from Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine

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Ukraine Plans to Sell Surplus Defense Systems to Support Drone Production

Amid funding shortages, Ukraine will sell surplus defense systems to international partners to strengthen its drone production capabilities. This move aims to address operational challenges faced by the defense sector.

Ukrinform ENReport2 min readUpdated 4/1/2026

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Amid funding shortages, Ukraine will sell surplus defense systems to international partners to strengthen its drone production capabiliti...

Photo: Ukrinform EN

At a glance

  • Ukraine's defense industry operates at half capacity due to funding issues.
  • Zelensky announced the readiness to sell surplus defense systems.
  • Ukraine seeks air defense missile support from Middle Eastern countries.
  • Expert teams are collaborating with Middle Eastern partners.
  • New agreements with European partners for joint weapons production are in the works.

Why it matters

The decision to sell surplus defense systems reflects Ukraine's need for financial resources to enhance its drone capabilities. Strengthened partnerships with international allies are essential for improving regional defense.

https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/4105732-ukraine-ready-to-sell-defense-systems-in-surplus-to-partners-zelensky.html

Announcement

AI illustration of Amid funding shortages, Ukraine will sell surplus defense systems to international partners to strengthen its drone pr...
Illustration for this report. Created by the editorial desk using AI.

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine is ready to sell certain surplus defense systems to international partners. This decision is driven by the Ukrainian defense industry operating at only half its capacity due to inadequate funding.

Purpose of the Sales

The revenue generated from these sales will be reinvested to enhance drone production for military use. Zelensky emphasized the critical need for financial resources, stating, "Funding is the scarcest resource today."

Efforts with International Partners

In an interview with Le Monde, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine's efforts to engage Middle Eastern nations to strengthen its defense capabilities. Ongoing discussions focus on securing future deliveries of vital defense equipment, including air defense missiles.

He noted that Ukraine is not only selling equipment but also sharing expertise in the effective use of interceptor drones. The United States has been involved in dialogues with Ukraine regarding the protection of military bases in several Middle Eastern countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Specialized Ukrainian teams are collaborating with allies in the region to enhance air defense strategies.

Collaboration with Europe

Zelensky also mentioned ongoing collaboration with European partners on joint weapons production projects, specifically targeting drones and new agreements for cooperation.

Challenges in Defense Production

Since the escalation of conflict, the Ukrainian defense industry has encountered significant challenges that have impacted production capabilities. The government's strategy to seek international collaborations and financial support aims to address these issues while modernizing military capabilities amid ongoing security threats.

Source: Ukrinform EN

This report is maintained as a live newsroom article. Headlines and top paragraphs may be tightened when fresh reporting changes the clearest angle.

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