Fedorov may lead the development of military technologies in Ukraine

Consultations are ongoing at Bankova regarding the new role of the former Minister of Defense, who could coordinate all areas of miltech, while at the same time discussing a possible change in the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

The events of recent days in Kyiv are unfolding around key figures in the defense sector. Mykhailo Fedorov, whose dismissal from the post of defense minister sparked a wave of protests, has found himself at the center of new personnel scenarios. Sources in Washington report that the Ukrainian authorities are considering granting him broad powers to coordinate the development of military technologies. In parallel, talks are ongoing about replacing Oleksandr Syrskyi as commander-in-chief.

Protests continue for third day

For the third day in a row, people have been gathering in the center of the capital demanding that Fedorov be reinstated to his previous position. The rallies are peaceful, but their scale indicates significant support among the military and volunteers. On the evening of July 18, Fedorov himself and President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the participants. The head of state promised that decisions regarding the army would be made after a thorough analysis of the situation at the front. In his address, the former minister emphasized the need for systemic changes in approaches to weapons and technologies.

The new role of the military technology coordinator

The term "miltech czar" in Western practice means a position with broad powers that allows coordinating the efforts of different departments without creating a new bureaucratic structure. In the case of Ukraine, this involves uniting the efforts of the Ministry of Defense, the General Staff, state and private manufacturers of drones, communication systems and artificial intelligence. Fedorov already has experience working with international partners in the field of drones and digitalization, so partners in Washington consider his candidacy the most suitable.

The new position is expected to accelerate the introduction of technologies at the front. In particular, it concerns the scaling up of the production of kamikaze drones, electronic warfare systems, and automated combat control platforms. According to experts, the volume of the Ukrainian military technology market in 2025 exceeded $4 billion, and in 2026 it may reach $6,5 billion.

Possible replacement of the commander-in-chief

At the same time, the Financial Times reports on the discussion of the candidacy of the successor to Oleksandr Syrsky. The condition for the replacement is to ensure a smooth transfer of authority and maintain the stability of the defense on the 1200-kilometer front. Several generals with experience in commanding operational-strategic groups are named among the possible candidates. The final decision will depend on the results of consultations with allies.

A change in the commander-in-chief could affect the pace of new technology adoption. That's why coordination between the new miltech czar and military leadership is critical. NATO partners are emphasizing the need for a single center for technology decision-making.

International context and partner support

Washington and Brussels are closely monitoring personnel processes in Ukraine. American officials believe that Fedorov is able to establish more effective interaction between Ukrainian developers and Western companies. Negotiations are already underway on the joint production of drones and air defense systems in Ukraine. It is expected that the former minister's new role will allow these projects to be accelerated.

European partners also express interest in strengthening the technological component of Ukrainian defense. Germany and France are ready to increase funding for joint programs in the field of artificial intelligence for target recognition. The total amount of assistance in the technological sphere for 2026 may exceed 1,8 billion euros.

Impact on the defense industry

The appointment of Fedorov as coordinator could significantly change the rules of the game for Ukrainian defense enterprises. Private companies involved in the production of drones expect simplified certification and procurement procedures. State-owned factories will receive clearer guidelines on priority areas of development.

Analysts predict an increase in the number of startups in the miltech sector. There are already over 120 companies developing military technologies operating in Kyiv and Lviv. The new coordination structure will allow them to receive government orders and enter international markets more quickly.

Conclusions and perspectives

The personnel decisions currently being discussed at Bankova will have long-term implications for Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Combining Fedorov’s expertise in the technology sector with possible changes in military leadership could create a new management model where technology and combat operations are more closely integrated. The partners expect these steps to allow Ukraine to maintain a technological edge on the battlefield.

Sources

1. ZN.UA, July 18, 2026
2. The Financial Times, July 17, 2026
3. Official address of the President of Ukraine, July 18, 2026
4. Statement by Mykhailo Fedorov during the protest, July 18, 2026