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National Armaments Directors Meet in Brussels to Discuss Ukraine Defense Efforts
The National Armaments Directors from UDCG member nations, the European Union, and NATO recently gathered in Brussels for the 11th time ahead of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group’s second anniversary. The focus of the meeting was on synchronizing international procurement, production, and sustainment efforts to address the urgent situation in Ukraine.
William LaPlante, undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, emphasized the need for immediate action on Ukraine’s priority requirements. The group discussed key capability areas such as ground-based, long-range fires, air defense systems, and maintenance and sustainment.
During the session, there was praise for increases in co-development and co-production ventures, with a $5.6 billion contract awarded for the procurement of up to 1,000 GEM-T missiles by multiple European nations. In the U.S., production of 155 mm artillery ammunition has surpassed 30,000 rounds per month, with plans to increase output to nearly 70,000 rounds per month by the end of the year.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of sustaining forces and systems already donated to Ukraine, with a focus on increasing mission capable rates to enhance combat power and operational readiness. The group is working on locating, producing, and provisioning spare parts, as well as providing subject matter experts for training and maintenance.
Overall, the National Armaments Directors remain committed to supporting Ukraine’s long-term success and driving action in any way possible. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the United States has committed over $44.9 billion in security assistance, with the UDCG nations pledging more than $89 billion in total security assistance to Ukraine. The group will convene again on April 26 to continue their efforts in supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
