Building a Post-War Force: 800,000 Troops and a Homegrown Arsenal
Ukraine's post-war security strategy is built on three pillars: a robust military, a domestic arms manufacturing base, and advanced technological development. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined this concept, which includes maintaining a force of 800,000 service members even during peace negotiations. However, Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has noted significant challenges, stating that 2 million individuals are currently evading mobilization and 200,000 soldiers have left their units without authorization. This ambitious military expansion comes as Ukraine seeks to establish a lasting deterrent against future aggression.
Military Strategy and Technological Edge
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are a cornerstone of Ukraine's military strategy, with officials noting that Russia is losing approximately 35,000 personnel monthly, largely due to Ukrainian drone operations. To sustain this advantage, Ukraine's Ministry of Defense plans to order 4.5 million FPV drones in 2025 at a cost of over 110 billion hryvnias (2.1 billion euros). Production of drones, electronic warfare systems, ammunition, and strike platforms already reaches hundreds and thousands of units. Yet, as Igor Fedyriko points out, serial production remains impossible without long-term contracts, stable financing, and protected manufacturing facilities.
Beyond drones, Ukraine is investing in long-range missile development. The company Fire Point has pledged to manufacture 200 Flamingo FP-5 missiles per month. Furthermore, Ukraine is collaborating with the United Kingdom to develop a tactical ballistic missile with a 500 km range. Concurrently, plans are underway to procure up to 150 Swedish Saab JAS-39E Gripen fighter jets.
Funding for these initiatives is supported by the European Union's SAFE weapons credit program, which allocates 150 billion euros to Ukraine, with 90 billion euros earmarked for defense. Despite the potential of Ukrainian defense companies, which could produce up to $35 billion in output, the government managed to issue contracts for only $12 billion last year.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasizes that under the threat from Russia, Ukrainians must be effective stewards of their nation's defense.
Alona Hetmanchuk observes that the longer the war continues, the more Ukrainians realize they must rely primarily on themselves. Meanwhile, Kostiantyn Nemichev stresses the importance of thorough combat training for service members, which would reduce desertion rates.
Thus, Ukraine's post-war security concept focuses on the necessity of creating a powerful army, developing domestic arms production, and strengthening the country's defensive capabilities. Implementing this strategy could be a key factor in ensuring Ukraine's national security amid the persistent threat from Russia. The emphasis on investing in domestic arms manufacturing and technology, alongside troop training, underscores Ukraine's drive to bolster its self-reliance and reduce dependence on external suppliers. This effort could also influence regional stability and security in Europe, highlighting Ukraine's commitment to maintaining peace on the continent.