Kosovo’s government announced on November 27 that Prime Minister Albin Kurti signed a decision marking the initial steps towards establishing Kosovo’s military industry.

The move is part of Kosovo’s broader strategy to enhance national security and reduce reliance on foreign supplies by fostering a sustainable and independent military industry. The announcement comes at a time of rising tensions with Serbia, which is also ramping up defence procurement. 

"Prime minister has signed a significant decision establishing an inter-ministerial commission, tasked with initiating procedures and negotiations for the establishment of an ammunition production factory in Kosovo, as well as a laboratory dedicated to drone design," according to the government's statement.

The commission will be chaired by Defence Minister Ejup Maqedonci.

Extending his congratulations to the citizens of Kosovo on the Day of the Force, Prime Minister Kurti highlighted the ongoing development of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) as a fundamental pillar of the nation’s advancement.

Reflecting on the advances under his government, Kurti said there had been significant progress compared to previous years.

"Since 2021, we have doubled the number of soldiers, tripled the Ministry’s defence budget, quadrupled overseas training opportunities for our officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers, and significantly increased investments in armaments and ammunition," the prime minister said.

Kurti underlined the importance of Nato-aligned procurement, stating: "The arms and ammunition you see in our army today are sourced from Nato member countries, notably the United States, Turkey, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Croatia, with the majority funded by Kosovo's budget and supplemented by donations from our friendly partner nations."

Maqedonci also spoke of the significance of the day, calling it a key milestone for the KSF. "November 27 has become a tradition as the Day of the Force, symbolising both our historical legacy from the liberation war and the ongoing development of our army across various stages," Maqedonci remarked.

He highlighted the launch of Kosovo’s military industry as a transformative step. "Today, we mark this day with a critical advancement in our defence and security infrastructure – the initiation of the military industry. This is a vital component of ensuring state stability in terms of defence and security," he said.