Shipbuilding in Mykolaiv should be restored gradually, starting with boats, yachts rather than aircraft carriers – region head Kim

Vitaliy Kim, the head of the Mykolaiv Regional Military Administration, is convinced that shipbuilding in Mykolaiv can be restored but emphasizes that the process must be gradual.

In an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine, Kim noted that while Mykolaiv once accounted for 75% of all shipbuilding in the Soviet Union, the industry suffered from economic wear and sabotage by Russia, which bought and bankrupted local plants. He pointed out that while Mykolaiv previously produced two Panamax-class vessels per year, modern South Korean plants produce the same volume monthly with significantly fewer personnel due to automation. Despite the loss of many specialists, Kim asserted that the region still possesses everything necessary to make the industry functional again.

Kim argued for a gradual restoration, suggesting that the industry should focus on building competitive yachts and motorboats rather than aircraft carriers. He noted that while the technical competence to build an aircraft carrier remains, military doctrines have shifted toward drone warfare, and Ukraine’s future shipbuilding will likely align with its experience as a drone-leading nation.

The head of the regional administration mentioned that South Korea and the broader Asian market are interested in maritime production, though he emphasized a desire for localizing technologies within Ukraine rather than exporting labor. He views the post-war recovery period as an opportunity to attract the world’s most competitive players to establish manufacturing in Ukraine.

Additionally, Kim discussed a concept to transform parts of industrial areas into public spaces, similar to urban renewal projects in Denmark. He suggested that while some areas must remain dedicated to ship production, others could be converted into technological parks or institutes, noting that the "gigantomania" of the past is no longer necessary.