For the first time since the war began, Ukraine has opened its defense exports to partner countries. Under the new "Drone Deal" initiative, 27 countries, including 15 NATO members, can purchase Ukrainian military equipment directly from manufacturers. The Ukrainian government says exports worth more than $335,000 will be authorized and requests will be reviewed within 30 days. Ukraine's defense industry, which had a $1 billion capacity in 2022, now produces $35 billion annually and is projected to reach $55 billion by 2026. Domestic contracts cover only about a third of that capacity, so exports are essential to sustain growth. Kyiv stresses that supplying the armed forces remains a priority and that the government can halt export of any equipment needed on the front if necessary.