Defense Procurement Agency Director Zhumadilov submits resignation

In August 2023, Zhumadilov took the position of Defense Procurement Agency Director amidst a fragmented defense procurement system. Over the past three years, the agency has made significant strides in transitioning to standardized processes, program management, systematic market engagement, risk management, compliance, and internal controls.

Zhumadilov reported that the number of suppliers for non-lethal procurement has doubled, with more than 2,000 verified suppliers for lethal equipment. In 2025, Ukraine held its first competitive bidding for weapons and military equipment, becoming a standard practice. The number of Ukrainian military equipment manufacturers working with the agency has quadrupled, and their share in procurements rose from 44% in 2024 to 87% in 2026.

Zhumadilov also introduced the DOT-Chain Defence online weapons store, delivering over 1.2 million items to 486 Defense Forces units. The DOT-Chain Arsenal digital ecosystem, which manages over 90% of weapons deliveries, was launched, with delivery times averaging nine days, or one day in record time. The Agency launched DOT-Chain Food in 2024, accelerating the food supply cycle fourfold.

Zhumadilov emphasized that while the system is strong, there are still solutions to implement, scale up, and progress. He expressed confidence in the system's continued success regardless of future leadership. Zhumadilov acknowledged the collaboration of the Ministry of Defense, Armed Forces of Ukraine, Ukrainian manufacturers, and international partners.

On August 17, Tetiana Nikolaienko confirmed Zhumadilov's resignation, following a scandal related to the dismissal of the previous director, Marina Bezrukova, in March 2025. The DPA and the Defense Technology (DOT) were merged into a single procurement agency, with Zhumadilov becoming its head effective January 1, 2026.