National Security

Ukraine’s Dr. Strangelove

A rocket designer with a dubious past sets out to build a missile shield with Europe—and without America.

First published in The Atlantic on July 17, 2026.

by Simon Shuster, The Atlantic

July 23, 2026 | reading time: 15 Min.

Nations don’t always get to pick their heroes, especially not in a time of war. Most Ukrainians, given the choice, would probably not want a character like Denys Shtilerman to be the architect of their revenge against Russia. He studied in Russia, became wealthy in Russia, worked for a Russian military institute, and served two stints in Russian jails. Some of his close associates are wanted in Ukraine for corruption. Yet Shtilerman, a prolific designer of weapons, has earned admiration across Europe for his role in Ukraine’s defense.