Ukraine’s growing partnership with the European Union in the joint production of artillery ammunition is reshaping the continent’s defense landscape, enhancing both security and industrial resilience. On October 9, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the combined production of artillery shells in Ukraine and the EU will reach parity with Russia by 2026, and potentially surpass it in the following years, according to Interfax-Ukraine.
Joint production reaches strategic level
Ukraine and the EU have established a strong cooperation framework for producing artillery shells, particularly the 155mm caliber, which has become standard for European forces and the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Ukraine currently reports a surplus of artillery systems due to its well-developed domestic manufacturing base. However, the availability of ammunition remains a key limiting factor — a gap that European partners are now working to close.
By expanding production capacity, Europe is not only supporting Ukraine’s defense but also reinforcing its own security architecture. Sustaining Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian aggression keeps the conflict away from EU borders and reduces Moscow’s military potential.
Strengthening Europe’s defense independence
Decades of post-Cold War disarmament left Europe facing an ammunition shortage when full-scale war returned to the continent. The ongoing cooperation with Ukraine is helping the EU overcome this deficit, enhancing its operational readiness and autonomy in defense. By developing its own manufacturing base for artillery rounds, Europe is reducing dependence on external suppliers and increasing flexibility in response to crises or future security challenges.
Ukrainian defense enterprises, seasoned by wartime conditions, bring valuable expertise in rapid industrial mobilization and production scaling. This experience enables Europe to accelerate its own manufacturing processes, integrate new technologies, and ensure faster delivery cycles.
Economic benefits and job creation
The partnership also generates tangible economic gains across the EU. European defense firms are investing in joint ventures and subcontracting arrangements with Ukrainian manufacturers, expanding their production capacity and creating new employment opportunities in engineering, maintenance, and logistics. These efforts contribute to the growth of Europe’s defense industry and to regional social stability.
Part of the output is expected to serve not only EU and Ukrainian defense needs but also external markets, boosting Europe’s export potential. In parallel, the expansion of joint procurement mechanisms and standardized production improves efficiency and interoperability across allied forces.
A stronger Europe through cooperation
Supporting Ukraine’s defense industry directly strengthens the EU’s own security, as threats to Ukraine have far-reaching implications for European stability. A resilient, well-armed Ukraine acts as a forward defense line for the continent — and a powerful partner in building a more autonomous, strategically capable Europe.
