In the first half of 2025, the Ministry of Defense codified a range of new domestically produced infantry weapons, reflecting a continued effort to modernize and adapt its arsenal to the evolving demands of the battlefield. This was confirmed by the Main Directorate for Support of the Life Cycle of Weapons and Military Equipment, which oversees the certification and adoption of military equipment.
A major focus of this update is on small arms and grenade launchers. Notably, three new 12-gauge smoothbore pump-action shotgun models have been approved for service. These Ukrainian-made shotguns are considered auxiliary weapons, highly effective in close-quarter combat scenarios such as dense urban environments or confined trench networks, conditions that are increasingly common in the ongoing war with russia.
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Beyond traditional infantry roles, the pump-action shotguns have also proven effective in countering kamikaze drones. Ukrainian forces have adapted to threats posed by low-flying UAVs, particularly in frontline zones, and have found success in using these shotguns to neutralize drones at close range.
Ukrainian arsenal has also been expanded with the adoption of a new domestically developed 40 mm automatic grenade launcher. This weapon offers enhanced firepower for infantry units, providing rapid and sustained fire against enemy positions, vehicles, and concentrations of troops.
In addition to new firearms, several categories of ammunition have been codified. These include rounds for heavy machine guns, sniper rifles, and assault rifles, with calibers compatible with both NATO and Soviet-standard weapon systems. This dual-standard approach reflects Ukraine's transitional armament landscape, which continues to incorporate legacy Soviet gear alongside modern Western systems.
Optical equipment also received a notable upgrade. New thermal imaging sights have been approved for use with small arms and heavy machine guns, significantly improving target acquisition in low-visibility or night-time operations. These systems are essential for maintaining operational effectiveness in complex combat environments.
Finally, Ukraine's defense forces will benefit from newly certified demining tools. These modern devices are designed to help soldiers detect and mark explosive hazards on the battlefield, increasing the safety and mobility of infantry units during operations in mined or booby-trapped areas. Together, these updates underscore Ukraine's commitment to rapidly modernizing its military capabilities with homegrown innovations.
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