Think of Ukraine, and you might picture a country fighting to defend itself against Russian aggression. But here’s a twist: Ukraine could soon become a major player in the global arms market. Thanks to its long history of tech innovation, the country is positioning itself not just as a buyer of weapons, but as a potential supplier.

It’s no secret that Ukraine has a knack for ingenuity. Back in 1951, during its time as part of the Soviet Union, Ukrainian inventors created one of Europe’s first computers—despite being cut off from Western knowledge. That same scrappy spirit lives on today, driving the success of tech companies like Grammarly and Ajax. Now, that innovation is being channeled into defense technologies as Ukraine continues to hold its ground against Russian forces.

One standout example? Volunteer armies of software developers and engineers are turning everyday tech into game-changing weapons. Think drones that can set fire to tanks, backpacks that jam enemy drones, and systems that give commanders a clear view of the battlefield. These aren’t just ideas—they’re already in action, developed by teams that often bypass traditional government channels altogether.

Oleksandr Kosovan, CEO of the Ukrainian software company MacPaw, shared these insights during a meeting in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He’s optimistic that Ukraine’s defense industry could one day supply NATO and even the U.S. with cutting-edge military tech.

Despite the ongoing conflict and recent attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, the country’s potential as an arms innovator is hard to ignore. If history is any guide, Ukraine’s tech-savvy approach to defense could make it a key player in global security for years to come.

So, if you’re shopping for arms, keep an eye on Ukraine. It might just become your best bet.