“The development of Albania’s defence industry and every step linked to it is always good news for our country. Despite fantasies, fabrications and political accusations from actors seeking to survive on a lost path, nothing stops the fact that defence industry growth is a strategic priority for Albania — serving both national security and our NATO commitments. Albania has now entered a new phase in which defence is no longer seen solely as a security issue, but as a strategic opportunity for economic, technological and industrial development,” Defence Minister Ermal Nufi said.

Through the state‑owned company KAYO, Defence Minister Ermal Nufi said six joint ventures with international firms are currently under way, while the Armed Forces have received the first 40 vehicles produced in Albania.

“For many years this industry was treated as a legacy to be dismantled, but today we are building and strengthening it with future‑oriented capacities. Through the state‑owned company KAYO, founded in 2024, we are forging partnerships with leading international firms. Six joint ventures are currently under way via public‑private partnerships involving KAYO. The Armed Forces have already received the first 40 vehicles produced domestically, and soon we will begin manufacturing light ammunition,” Defence Minister Ermal Nufi said.

Defence Minister Ermal Nufi also highlighted Fincantieri Albania and the production of individual protective equipment for the Armed Forces and other security institutions. “With Fincantieri Albania, thanks to a partnership with a prestigious shipbuilding leader, we are not simply buying vessels: we are strengthening Albania’s capacity to build domestically, produce for ourselves and export to allied countries. Protective gear for the Armed Forces and security institutions, items that until yesterday were imported, will now be manufactured in Albania to the highest international standards,” he underlined.

Defence Minister stressed that the industry should not be seen only as a matter of security but also as an opportunity for jobs, technology, domestic production and economic growth. “These are only the first steps. After 17 years as a beneficiary of Alliance security, Albania is increasingly turning them into concrete steps to be an actual contributor. This is a fact that should make all Albanians proud, left and right. For decades defence was a bill to pay, today we are building a specific industry linked to it — one that produces security, technology, capacities and generates employment, ensuring we have the right capabilities for the country’s safety,” he concluded.

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