Minister Vengu Says Military Industry Expansion and Civil Emergency Modernization Advance Defense and Economic Development

Minister of Defense Pirro Vengu stated that the increase in the defense budget is not only strengthening military and civil protection capacities, but also promoting economic development, innovation, and quality employment.
He noted that the military sector has made concrete progress with the formation of four state-owned companies and six production contracts for ammunition, uniforms, and tactical vehicles that are currently being implemented. Meanwhile, negotiations have been finalized with the Italian company Fincantieri to establish a joint venture for naval vessels in Pashaliman. A co-production contract has also been signed with Rheinmetall for transport and emergency vehicles, which will integrate Albanian industry into the European supply chain.
Several key projects are expected to begin in the coming months. In April, the tactical drone assembly line will start operations, and 12 engineers will be recruited and trained by Israeli partners. In May, the Air Force Aviation School will launch with two training helicopters. Throughout the year, the production of military uniforms and emergency vehicles is expected, as well as the development of anti-drone systems.
Regarding civil emergencies, the minister emphasized that a national resilience program combining response and prevention has been developed. Financing for 47 municipalities has significantly increased through the conditional fund, with the budget tripling in Lezhë and Gramsh, increasing sixfold in Përrenjas, and increasing sevenfold in Delvinë. Eight million euros have been approved for investments in preventive infrastructure, along with an additional ten million euros for dams, river embankments, and bridges. The creation of two regional emergency centers and the purchase of two firefighting aircraft are also planned.
The renewal of the emergency fleet will include the domestic production of firefighting vehicles in cooperation with the National Civil Protection Agency and KAYO, starting in May. These vehicles will then be distributed to municipalities.
Regarding human capital, Vengu emphasized that 100 active military personnel have been added in the past 14 months, voluntary departures from the Armed Forces have decreased by 70 percent, and previously departed personnel have returned. The cyber defense program has been certified as a program of excellence, and support packages for military personnel and their families will continue.
This year alone, the defense industry plans to create 326 new jobs, half of which are for engineers. The long-term goal is for more than 1,000 families to benefit from the growth of this sector.
The minister emphasized that strengthening military capabilities, the defense industry, and the civil emergency system contributes directly to preparing the country for European Union standards and establishes Albania as a reliable partner in European security.