Ukraine to host joint howitzer production with BAE Systems in 2024.

Ukraine is set to welcome BAE Systems for a joint production of howitzers starting in 2024. This development was announced by Oleksandr Kamyshin, Ukraine's Minister of Strategic Industries, and marks a significant milestone for the country. However, BAE Systems is not the only company investing in Ukraine's defense industry.
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BAE Systems will collaborate with Ukraine on licensed production of howitzers, slated to begin next year (Picture source: Army Recognition and BAE Systems)

BAE Systems will collaborate with Ukraine on licensed production of howitzers, slated to begin next year. Notably, some of the systems that could be produced under this license, such as howitzers similar to the M109 Paladin, are already in service in Ukraine. The partnership may also extend to other artillery systems like the Archer artillery system.

Ukraine's military has already benefited from BAE Systems' expertise, incorporating advanced systems like the M109 self-propelled howitzer for essential fire support, the Archer artillery system for precision strikes, and the Bradley fighting vehicle for adaptability in various combat scenarios.

Rheinmetall, a German defense company, also has plans for a production facility in Ukraine. Announced in July 2023, Rheinmetall is known for its comprehensive range of armaments, from armored vehicles to artillery systems. Their expertise could diversify Ukraine's arsenal with a variety of armaments and equipment.

Baykar, a Turkish company, will also invest $100 million in three distinct projects in Ukraine. One of these projects is a drone production facility, expected to be completed within the next 1.5 years, or by mid-2025. The Bayraktar TB2 combat drone could be one of the models produced.

The overarching objective of these partnerships is to equip Ukraine with NATO's advanced technologies and robust production capabilities. This aims to bolster Ukraine's armed forces while reducing the need for external assistance, including reliance on support from the United States and the European Union.

These investments come at a time when recent signs, as of late 2023, indicate a slowdown in military aid deliveries to Ukraine. As such, these partnerships could offset this decline and contribute to enhancing Ukraine's defense autonomy.