MINSK, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday called for a boost in the country's defense capabilities amid heightened military activity near its borders.
At a meeting on military-industrial development, Lukashenko demanded the establishment of domestic production of common ammunition types -- artillery shells and rockets for Grad multiple-launch rocket systems -- by the end of 2026.
He emphasized that despite the growing role of high-tech weapons, conventional artillery remains decisive in combat engagements.
The president tasked the government with securing funding for the projects and assigned oversight to the State Secretariat and the State Control Committee, warning officials against any delays in meeting the deadlines. ■