Ukrainian Arms Makers Cite Battlefield Use as Selling Point for Western Partners

Ukrainian defense companies say their weapons gain an edge because they are used, tested, and modified daily in active combat. Serhiy Goncharov, the CEO of the National Association of Ukrainian Defense Industries, told Business Insider that the industry receives interest "because of the battle experience" and because Ukrainian firms can explain how equipment works more directly than companies limited to test flights or simulations.

Rozhkov, chief business development officer at Frontline Robotics, said Ukrainian firms have "direct contact with the military that is using our systems 10 times per day" and receive continuous feedback without formal requests. Stanislav Hryshyn, cofounder of drone maker General Cherry, said Western partners are "very interested in Ukrainian defense tech" because of the experience and expertise gained.

Ihor Fedirko, CEO of the Ukrainian Council of Defence Industry, pointed to the performance of Ukrainian counter-drone systems in the Middle East as evidence of readiness.

Croatian firm ORQA is collaborating with General Cherry on drone components. ORQA cofounder and CEO Srdjan Kovacevic said Ukrainian forces have developed "operational excellence" and experience producing large volumes of drones. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said last month that Ukraine's security experience and military expertise "are now the most sought-after products for dozens of countries worldwide.