Rinat Akhmetov's Steel Front defence initiative has successfully completed the transfer of another large-scale batch of drones and technical equipment to the 1st Army Corps of the National Guard. The value of the transferred assets amounts to $5m (UAH 214 million). This delivery represents a continuation of the systematic support Metinvest Group has provided to the corps throughout 2025.
When combining this latest delivery with previous aid, the total amount of assistance provided to the 1st Army Corps over the past year has reached $14m (UAH 600 million). The allocation of these funds was driven by the need to supply the most critical technological solutions for the front line, as well as to provide essential logistical and technical support to the units operating in high-intensity zones.
Oleksandr Vodoviz, Head of the CEO's Office of Metinvest Group, commented on the ongoing cooperation:
"In 2025, we continued to support the 1st Army Corps of the National Guard in areas of critical importance to combat operations: electronic warfare systems, UAVs, means of communication, fuel, and technical support. The total amount of this assistance [to 1st Army Corps] is UAH 600 million ($14m)."
The leadership of the 1st Army Corps emphasised that such support is vital, as the dynamics of modern warfare against russia require a constant and rapid upgrading of the technological base.
"In 2025, the requirements for equipment increased severalfold," said Ivan Ihnatiev, Deputy Commander of the Army Corps for Logistics. "Electronic warfare systems, UAVs, and secure communications determine the success of operations and save the lives of our soldiers. We are thankful to Rinat Akhmetov's Steel Front for its large-scale support of the corps: the scale of this assistance makes it possible to meet significant operational needs. For us, it is important to see a business that assumes responsibility and understands the realities faced by Ukraine's defenders today."
According to military representatives, a responsible stance from the business sector is crucial for addressing the real challenges faced by the Defence Forces of Ukraine.
About the Initiative
Rinat Akhmetov's Steel Front is a defence initiative that consolidates support from all SCM businesses for the Defence Forces of Ukraine, with Metinvest Group serving as the key production and logistics hub. The project's scope extends beyond the procurement of equipment; it also involves the manufacturing of critically important products using the company’s own steel. These include mobile steel shelters known as "kryivka", anti-mine trawls, and protective screens for armoured vehicles.
The total amount allocated by Mr. Akhmetov to support the military and civilians since the start of the full-scale invasion now amounts to $300m (UAH 12.8 billion). This sustained contribution underscores the commitment of SCM and Mr. Akhmetov to Ukraine's victory and the safety of its defenders.
