Dmytro Shymkiv is a top executive, entrepreneur, and respected professional with over 20 years of experience in innovative industries (high tech, software, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, medicine) across Ukraine, Europe, and North America. He was born in Lviv and has been involved in programming and innovation since the age of 14. He served as the General Manager of Microsoft Ukraine (2009-2014), Deputy Head of the Administration of the President of Ukraine (2014-2018), and Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors at Darnytsia Group (2018-2022).
The defence industry is rapidly becoming one of the most dynamic sectors of the global economy, with technology at its core. Demand is rising amid the war in Ukraine and global instability — military spending worldwide has already reached its highest levels since the Cold War.
The war in Ukraine has proven that traditional approaches to defence are no longer effective. Drones, autonomous systems, digital command, and adaptive manufacturing are shaping a new security architecture.
Ukraine has gained unique expertise in defence tech. The discussion will focus on which technologies will drive the industry’s future, how the state should design regulation, and how international partnerships can open global markets for Ukrainian innovations.