Ukraine’s growing cooperation with the European Union in the joint production of artillery shells is strengthening the continent’s security and defense capabilities while enhancing its strategic autonomy and industrial resilience. On October 9, 2025, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the combined production volume of artillery rounds in Ukraine and the EU will reach parity with, and potentially surpass, Russia’s output in 2026. According to Interfax-Ukraine, Ukraine now maintains a surplus of artillery systems, and the main challenge remains ensuring a sufficient supply of 155mm shells—the European standard that Ukraine is transitioning to.
Expanding production to match Russia’s firepower
The ability of Europe, in partnership with Ukraine, to produce artillery ammunition at levels comparable to or exceeding Russia’s capacity could accelerate the defeat of Russian forces and bring peace closer to Europe. This would also reduce the likelihood of the conflict spreading beyond Ukraine’s borders. By rebuilding its defense production base after decades of disarmament, the EU is addressing its ammunition shortages and reinforcing its military readiness amid the ongoing Russian threat.
Strengthening strategic autonomy and defense resilience
The joint Ukraine–EU effort to produce enough artillery shells for both current military needs and strategic reserves reduces Europe’s dependence on external suppliers and enhances its defense autonomy. This collaboration is particularly crucial amid global uncertainty in arms supply chains. Ukrainian defense enterprises, having mastered production and modernization under wartime conditions, bring valuable experience that allows European partners to rapidly scale up manufacturing and optimize technological processes.
Economic and industrial benefits across Europe
This defense-industrial cooperation also promotes joint procurement, standardization, and technology sharing. European defense companies can invest in or partner with Ukrainian manufacturers, expanding production capacity, creating new jobs, and stimulating growth across engineering, logistics, and servicing sectors. Some of this production will target not only European and Ukrainian defense needs but also international markets, strengthening Europe’s export potential and economic stability.
Security dividends for both Ukraine and Europe
Supporting Ukraine’s defense industry directly enhances both Ukrainian and European security. The threats facing Ukraine are transnational, and reinforcing its defense capabilities contributes to the collective stability of the continent. A strong Ukrainian defense partner within Europe represents not only a shield against aggression but also a strategic advantage in maintaining long-term peace and deterrence.
