Ukrainian weapons in the spotlight: foreigners want domestic drones and artillery
At the international defence exhibition Indo Defence Expo Forum in Jakarta, Ukrainian companies presented drones, armoured vehicles, artillery and electronic warfare systems that have already proved themselves in battles against Russia.
Here's What We Know
From 11 to 14 June, Indonesia hosts one of the most influential defence industry exhibitions in the region, the Indo Defence Expo Forum. A delegation of 11 Ukrainian companies that are members of the National Association of Ukrainian Defence Industries (NAUDI) is taking part in the event. Among the participants are Ukrainian Armour, Kvertus, VEEM-Metalavtoprom, KTD Plus, OKO Camera, Aviation Systems of Ukraine and others.
Ukrainian stand at the Indo Defence Expo Forum in Indonesia. Illustration: NAUDI
On the first day of the exhibition, the stands of Ukrainian manufacturers attracted interest not only from the Indonesian defence ministry, but also from representatives of other countries and private companies. The greatest interest was aroused by electronic warfare systems from Kvertus, SBA Novator armoured vehicles, 2S22 Bohdana self-propelled artillery system, MP-120 mortar, drones, as well as parachute systems and an upgraded P-18S radar with a detection range of up to 350 km.
According to the manufacturers themselves, an important reason for the interest was the recognition of the effectiveness of Ukrainian weapons on the battlefield - especially after the high-profile Operation Spider's Web, which resulted in the destruction of enemy strategic aviation.
NAUDI emphasises that participation in such events is not only about export prospects, but also about Ukraine's geopolitical presence. After all, Russia is trying to promote its own weapons even in Southeast Asia, and to counter this, active participation of Ukrainian companies is necessary.
Ukrainian stand at the Indo Defence Expo Forum in Indonesia. Illustration: NAUDI
Despite the fact that Ukrainian arms exports are currently restricted by martial law, analysts believe that products proven in real-world combat have a chance to successfully compete in the market, displacing Russian manufacturers in a number of segments.
Source: Defence Express
