Ukraine continues its efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities and consolidate its military supply chain in the tense geopolitical environment it finds itself in. In this context, Ukraine has been working to strengthen its defense capabilities and strengthen its military supply chain, formerly known as Mecar. KNDS Belgium SA, Ukrainian Defense Industry Joint Stock Company Signed a strategic cooperation agreement with a subsidiary of Ukroboronprom. This agreement, which became official on May 20, 2025, is particularly important for the use of the weapons currently used in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Joint production of 30 mm ammunition compatible with Soviet-origin weapon systems focusing.
A Critical Step for Ukraine's Defense Industry
This cooperation is an important part of the efforts of the Ukrainian defense industry, officially known as UDI, to strengthen its military supply chain and expand international industrial partnerships. According to the news published by Army Recognition, the main goal of the partnership is to develop a system capable of targeting enemy personnel, light armored vehicles and low-flying air threats. to facilitate the joint assembly of ammunition for autocannonsSuch munitions are of critical importance, especially in modern and asymmetric conflicts where flexibility and rapid response are essential.
Director General of Ukroboronprom Oleh Hulyak, stressed that the agreement will help Ukraine expand its international partnerships and further integrate its defense industry into NATO-related global arms markets. “We are gradually expanding the geography of our international partnerships, seeking and finding new areas of interaction. This benefits the Ukrainian Defense Forces and our defense-industrial complex,” Hulyak said. This statement demonstrates Ukraine’s determination to adapt to Western standards and increase its own defense production capacity.
KNDS Belgium's Global Export Strategy
KNDS Belgium is known worldwide as a major ammunition manufacturer and currently supplies NATO, the Belgian Army and several other armed forces worldwide. The company's participation in this project was supported by the CEO Jean-Michel GirardAs confirmed by Girard, it is a reflection of the strategy of opening up to export markets. Girard sees great potential in developing a new ammunition series, especially due to the continued widespread use of Soviet-origin weapon systems in the former Eastern Bloc countries. This demonstrates KNDS Belgium’s aim to expand its market share by responding to current global needs.
This strategic partnership not only strengthens Ukraine’s defense capabilities, but also creates a new market and growth area for KNDS Belgium. It also exemplifies the active participation of Western defense companies in efforts to expand and modernize their production capacities in Ukraine.
The Importance of Co-Production and Future Vision
The joint production of 30 mm ammunition will not only directly meet Ukraine’s military needs, but will also provide an important basis for future defense industry projects. This agreement supports Ukraine’s steps towards strengthening its military autonomy and expanding its international cooperation network. Joint production will not only ensure the supply of ammunition, but can also promote technology transfer and the development of local expertise.
Such collaborations can be considered as important steps towards increasing the defense capacity of countries and strengthening their strategic independence at a time when global geopolitical balances are changing.
