The Ukrainian defense-industrial complex is currently undergoing a profound structural transformation.
In its latest report, «Ukrainian Defence Associations Overview», the Sahaidachnyi Security Center analyzes the sector’s evolution from 2022 to 2025. The study’s primary conclusion is clear: the industry has graduated from a phase of separated volunteer initiatives to systemic consolidation, with specialized associations and clusters now driving growth.
The Market in Numbers
Analysts have recorded a rapid scaling of the industry, highlighted by the following metrics:
- Scale: Over 1,200 defense companies now operate in Ukraine.
- Capital Structure: 60% of the sector consists of private businesses, signaling a decisive shift away from the state-monopoly model.
- Regional Leadership: Ukraine is now home to one-third of all defense innovators in Central and Eastern Europe.
- Investment Appeal: Between 2024 and 2025, the sector attracted approximately €50 million in investment.
The Role of Diia.City United
The report identifies Diia.City United as a vital instrument for developing technological business within the defense sector.
In 2025, the Association initiated its strategic Defense Tech & Dual Use Stream to meet the demands of member companies for a unified platform to collaborate with the state, investors, and the market.
Experts note that strengthened cooperation between the state and the private sector is a key indicator of the industry’s institutional maturity.
In this context, the report classifies Diia.City United as one of the market’s «architects» — alongside Brave1 and NAUDI. This status is reinforced by the Association’s regular interaction formats, such as «Dialogues with the Government» and «Dialogues: Ukraine – World.»
The overview emphasizes that by expanding its network of partnerships across both private and public sectors, Diia.City United helps companies accelerate their time-to-market while providing the state with faster access to innovative defense technology solutions.
Furthermore, our Association serves as a trusted entry point for international investors and partners looking to operate within Ukraine’s defense and dual-use segments.
