Never enough: Ukraine counts on artillery supplies from partners

Minister for Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyshin (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)

Despite efforts to domestically manufacture artillery ammunition, Ukraine faces significant shortfalls in meeting the immense demands of its Armed Forces, relying heavily on supplies from partner nations, according to the Minister for Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyshin during a defense industry forum between the EU and Ukraine.

“While we have commenced production of artillery ammunition, as with other military assets, domestic production alone will never suffice for Ukraine’s needs. No matter how much we ramp up production or enhance our capabilities, we will continue to depend on external supplies,” he remarked.

According to the minister, Ukraine’s demand for ammunition surpasses the combined defense capabilities of all free world nations.

“Hence, we are not currently discussing fulfilling the complete needs of our defense forces, as it’s simply enormous. Rather, we acknowledge our significant contribution to meeting these demands,” Kamishin added.

The minister underscored three primary challenges facing Ukraine’s defense industry: financing, persistent shelling, and a global shortage of explosives and propellants crucial for artillery ammunition production.

“Everything else has ceased to be major obstacles for us,” he emphasized.

Ammunition for Ukraine

The Ukrainian military grapples with acute shortages of artillery shells, adversely impacting combat operations on the frontlines. To address this issue, EU countries pledged to provide Ukraine with 1 million shells; however, this transfer has yet to materialize.

Czechia initiated efforts to source shells outside the EU and began fundraising for their procurement, garnering support from numerous other nations. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced in late March that, thanks to Czech efforts, a significant shipment of ammunition would soon be dispatched to Ukraine.

As reported by Corriere della Sera, participants in the Czech initiative signed an agreement for the provision of 1 million artillery shells to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, surpassing initial plans.

The situation regarding Ukraine’s ammunition supply remains challenging. Despite EU and other countries’ efforts, the Ukrainian Armed Forces still lack the necessary ammunition for effective combat operations.