Ukraine and the United Kingdom discussed strengthening air defence, air capabilities and drone production: Ministry of Defence

Ukraine looks to the United Kingdom for continued long-term support in key areas of defence, including air defence, air capabilities, countering russian drones, and funding the production of Ukrainian unmanned systems.

This was discussed during a meeting between Ukraine’s Acting Minister of Defence, Evgeniy Khmara, and UK Secretary of State for Defence Wes Streeting.

The meeting was also attended by Brigadier General Serhii Sobko, Acting Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and an intelligence representative. They briefed the British delegation on the battlefield situation, current threats, the measures Ukraine is taking in response to the aggressor’s actions, and its current defence requirements.

Protecting the skies: a key priority

Evgeniy Khmara thanked the United Kingdom for its leadership and steadfast support for Ukraine.

The United Kingdom is committed to providing long-term support to Ukraine of at least GBP 3 billion a year. Ukraine looks to continued UK support in areas that are critical to protecting lives and strengthening the country’s resilience.

"First and foremost, we must protect Ukraine’s skies. We need the capabilities to counter ballistic and cruise missiles, faster deliveries of radar systems, and expanded radar coverage. The speed at which these decisions are implemented directly affects Ukraine’s ability to protect its cities, critical infrastructure and people’s lives," said Yevgeniy Khmara, acting Minister of Defence.

The two sides also discussed enhancing Ukraine’s air capabilities.

Gripen, Meteor and countering glide bomb carriers

The discussions also covered support for the initiative to provide Gripen fighter aircraft armed with Meteor missiles. This is important for countering russian glide bomb carriers.

Another key priority is countering russian attack drones. Ukraine and the United Kingdom have already agreed on the delivery of hundreds of counter-drone missiles this year.

Funding for Ukrainian drones

Another focus of the meeting was Ukrainian unmanned systems.

Ukraine looks to continued and increased funding for the production of Ukrainian unmanned systems, including through proceeds from frozen russian assets.

Such decisions enable the rapid scaling of capabilities that have already proven effective on the battlefield.

"Ukraine has gained unique experience in modern warfare, while the United Kingdom is one of our key partners in strengthening our defence capabilities. I am grateful for its leadership, steadfast support, and tangible assistance to Ukraine," said the Defence Minister.

The two sides agreed to continue developing the long-term, mutually beneficial defence partnership between Ukraine and the United Kingdom.