Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti announced on Wednesday that the government has signed a decision to create a new commission focused on building an ammunition factory and a drone lab. This step is part of Kosovo’s plan to strengthen its military and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
Kurti said that Kosovo’s armed forces have grown rapidly in recent years, and now it’s time to ensure they’re fully sustainable. “Today, we’re taking the first steps to build our own defense industry,” he said during a government meeting.
Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci added that the government has already received a feasibility report from Turkish defense partners, which will help move the project forward. He stressed the importance of restocking global ammunition supplies and building up reserves. “Not only our country but the whole region needs to make sure it has enough stockpiled,” Maqedonci said.
The factory will meet NATO standards, and Kosovo is working closely with the United States to ensure the project’s success. “We’re consulting with all our partners, especially the U.S.,” Maqedonci emphasized.
This factory is just one part of Kosovo’s broader effort to turn its Kosovo Security Force (KSF) into a full army. This process, which started in 2009 and was confirmed in 2018, is expected to take about 10 years to complete.
While Kosovo pushes ahead with its defense plans, NATO peacekeepers will remain in the country. Over 4,000 NATO troops, including hundreds from the U.S., are stationed in Kosovo to maintain stability.
With this new factory, Kosovo is taking a significant step toward securing its military independence while continuing to strengthen its ties with NATO allies.
