Umerov at Ramstein meeting: innovation, tech progress needed for breakthrough in war

This was noted by Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov, who heads the Ukrainian delegation at an online meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, Ukrinform reports with reference to the ministry’s press service.

“Sufficient supplies of equipment and ammunition, maintenance and spare parts are critical to success. But breakthroughs require innovation and significant technological progress. That is why in 2024, defense technologies will play a central role in the agenda of the Ministry of Defense," Umerov emphasized.

In his speech, he also expressed gratitude to all countries that support the Defense Forces, in particular in the development of coalition capabilities, and emphasized that it is now critical to increase long-term packages of military aid to Ukraine. The Ministry of Defense, for its part, is ready to co-invest in technology and joint production, share combat experience, and facilitate the conclusion of long-term contracts with interested companies.

As noted, the Ukrainian delegation also included Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, First Deputy Minister of Defense Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk, Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Serhiy Shaptala, Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, and other officials.

As reported earlier U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday officially opened the meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which this month is being held in the format of a video conference. The meeting focuses on Ukraine’s long-term defense needs.