Gripen jets and missiles to counter Shaheds: Ukraine outlines defense plans with UK
Photo: Acting Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara (facebook.com/SecurSerUkraine)
Ukraine and the United Kingdom have discussed expanding defense cooperation, including strengthening air defenses, supporting Ukraine's air force, and procuring Ukrainian-made drones, according to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense.
The issues were the focus of the first conversation between Acting Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara and UK Defense Secretary Wes Streeting.
Khmara congratulated his British counterpart on his appointment and thanked London for its unwavering support for Ukraine.
"We are building a long-term and mutually beneficial defense partnership with the United Kingdom. Ukraine is grateful for its steadfast support. In return, we are ready to share our experience of modern warfare and the solutions that have already proven effective on the battlefield," he said.
Strengthening Ukraine's air force
One of the key topics of the talks was enhancing Ukraine's air capabilities.
Kyiv is counting on British support for a project to supply Gripen fighter jets and Meteor missiles. According to the Ministry of Defense, the move would improve Ukraine's ability to counter Russian combat aircraft and strengthen the protection of its airspace.
Ukraine also stressed the importance of continued deliveries of munitions for its F-16 fighter jets. This is particularly important for protecting the Black Sea grain corridor from Russian attacks.
Countering Shahed drones
The two sides also focused on countering Russian strike drones.
The Ministry of Defense noted that Russia is increasing its use of jet-powered Shahed drones, making rapid decisions by partners to supply appropriate countermeasures crucial for better protecting civilians and critical infrastructure.
Procurement of Ukrainian drones
The talks also covered the possible procurement of Ukrainian-made drones for the Defense Forces under the ERA Loan mechanism, which is financed through proceeds generated by frozen Russian assets.
The initiative includes interceptor drones, as well as middle-strike and deep-strike unmanned aerial vehicles.
Following the talks, Khmara thanked the United Kingdom for its readiness to deepen cooperation and support Ukraine's new defense initiatives.
It is worth recalling that on July 22, the Council of the European Union approved the UK's participation in the Ukraine Support Loan program.
The decision allows London to join the €90 billion loan package for Ukraine, with the funds earmarked for defense needs and budget support in 2026-2027.
Ukraine will also be able to procure defense products from British manufacturers.
