Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, David Aloian, took part in a meeting of NATO–Ukraine Council

Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, David Aloian, took part in a meeting of NATO–Ukraine Council at the level of permanent representatives, chaired by NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska. Representatives of all 32 Allied nations attended the meeting.

The meeting marked a historic milestone, as it was the first time that the development of Ukraine’s defense industry and its integration with the defense-industrial sectors of NATO member states had been discussed separately at the level of permanent representatives.

In his address David Aloian presented to the Allies the capabilities of Ukraine’s defense-industrial complex and the country’s experience in rapidly scaling up production under the conditions of a full-scale war.

In particular, he emphasized that Ukraine possesses unique expertise in unmanned systems, recognized worldwide. Funding for Ukraine’s defense industry reached $19.4 billion in 2025 — 2.5 times higher than in 2024.

“Ukraine has demonstrated extraordinarily rapid growth in its defense industry during the full-scale war and stands ready to work together with its partners to strengthen the security of the Euro-Atlantic area,” David Aloian stated.

The discussions focused primarily on the development of Ukraine’s defense industries since 2022, the expansion of both state-owned and private-sector production amid constant Russian attacks, the "Build with Ukraine" program, and the establishment of long-term industrial partnerships.

Special attention was also given to Ukraine’s Drone Deal initiative — a framework of long-term, 10-year agreements on security and defense-industrial cooperation with international partners. Through this model, Ukraine proposes transforming its battlefield experience into a systemic instrument for strengthening international security and advancing the defense industry.

Another key topic was joint projects in the areas of long-range capabilities, air defense, and missile technologies. In cooperation with leading defense manufacturers from NATO member states, Ukraine will work toward creating a unified integrated system to counter ballistic threats.

David Aloian thanked NATO member states for their unwavering support for Ukraine and stressed that Ukraine’s experience, technologies, and defense capabilities can significantly strengthen the Alliance and serve as a foundation for long-term security cooperation.