The Ukrainian defense industry still struggles to get into fighting shape — Le Monde

Ukraine enters the third year of the conflict with a growing industrial lag behind Russia.

This information reported by Le Monde.

On the front lines, there is a shortage of ammunition and artillery, and the dependence on Western military aid is only increasing. As Russia announces a 70% increase in its military expenditures and has already transitioned to a wartime economy, the article recommends that Kyiv undertake significant quantitative and qualitative efforts in its industrial sector.

There are numerous reasons for the delay in the Ukrainian defense-industrial complex. For decades, this sector has suffered from corruption and neglect. Even the year 2014, when the conflict in Donbas began, did not lead to a profound reform of the sector.

In 2022, it has shrunk to minimal proportions, including under the barrage of Russian missiles. The surviving production has moved to secretive locations, often underground and far from the front lines or under the protection of air defense systems.