**Ukraine to Develop Its Own Air Defense Systems**
The Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, has announced that the country is working on developing its own air defense systems. In an interview with a Ukrainian news outlet, he stated that Ukraine has the capacity and capabilities to create such a system.
**Russian Threats Prompt Development**
Ukraine’s efforts come in response to intensifying Russian strikes targeting energy infrastructure. Syrskyi said that Ukraine is lobbying international partners for more air defense capabilities. He also mentioned that Russia’s new intermediate-range ballistic missile, the Oreshnik, is a strong motivation for Ukraine to produce its own anti-missile air defenses.
**Matching US-made Patriot System**
Ukraine’s homegrown system aims to match the U.S.-made Patriot air defenses, according to Syrskyi. He emphasized that only a few air defense systems can repel the Oreshnik, and Ukraine does not yet possess these capabilities. The threat posed by the Oreshnik is strong motivation for Kyiv to produce its own anti-missile air defenses.
**Ukraine Spends Record on Weapons Production**
In 2025, Ukraine plans to spend a record $35 billion on weapons production. This includes financing from both the Ukrainian government and international allies. The U.K. has agreed to finance production of air defense systems and long-range weapons in Ukraine.
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