Reference Message Network reported on April 5th according to a report on the website of German News Television Channel on April 4th. The Royal Institute for Defense Studies, a UK think tank, pointed out in a report that during the Ukraine war, Russia has been more successful in strengthening its defense production than Europe. The report warned that this is a big problem—not only for Ukraine.
The report wrote: "Russia's continued lead in defense production poses a strategic threat to NATO and the credibility of its conventional deterrence." The reasons for Europe's lagging behind include lack of consultation, insufficient emphasis on large-scale production, bureaucratic obstacles, and inadequate use of testing infrastructure.
The report shows that over the past three years, Europe has neither increased the production of basic ammunition nor replenished the stock of precision weapons. For example, after the UK delivered portable weapons to Ukraine in 2022, it has not yet replenished its inventory. The production of artillery ammunition has been hindered due to governments' unwillingness to make long-term investments, and capacity has not increased. Regulations regarding the shelf life of ammunition also hinder the expansion of inventories.
Ukraine also faces problems: despite progress in projects such as drones, its industrial level has reached its limit. The report stated that without reliable Western supplies, Ukraine's defense capabilities will remain in danger for a long time. On the other hand, although Russia's economic strength is far inferior to that of NATO countries, its military industry output has exceeded that of NATO from 2022 to 2024. Russia has focused on relatively simple weapons.
The report warned: "Without urgent reform, Europe's fragmented defense industry will further leave NATO member states helpless in the face of supply chain disruptions and production delays." (Translated by Zhong Si Rui)
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7489720416181764647/
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