Ukraine and United Kingdom sign 2026 defense cooperation roadmap

"Together with UK Secretary of State for Defence John Healey, we signed today in Kyiv a roadmap for the development of the one hundred year partnership," Denys Shmyhal writes.

The agreement lays the foundation for long-term military-technical and industrial cooperation between the two countries.

"The document formalizes defense cooperation for 2026 across a number of key security areas. This is an important step toward implementing large-scale projects made possible by the One Hundred Year Partnership Agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom," Shmyhal emphasizes.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed the consequences of Russia's massive combined strike on Ukraine last night.

The Ukrainian delegation informed its British partners about the situation and urgent needs.

"Strengthening air defense and ensuring a sufficient supply of ammunition for these systems remain key priorities," the Minister stresses.

Separately, Ukraine and the UK agreed to develop joint strategic projects in the field of air defense and long-range weapons. It was also confirmed that Ukraine plans to start producing 1,000 Octopus interceptor drones per month in February.

In addition, the parties discussed the prospects for localizing the production of Gripen fighter jets, which use British companies' technologies, strengthening the protection of the Black Sea, and preparing for the Ramstein format meeting in February.

Strategic partnership

A 100-year partnership agreement between Ukraine and the UK was signed to transition from ad hoc assistance to systematic and long-term defense cooperation. It provides for joint investments, localization of production, and technological integration of defense industries.

The United Kingdom has been one of Ukraine's key military partners since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, providing air defense systems, missiles, armored vehicles, and training for the military.

The new agreements reinforce this support amid the growing intensity of Russian missile and drone attacks and preparations for the next Ramstein meeting, where partners will determine the amount of aid for 2026.

PURL program for Ukraine

In July, the US and NATO launched the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism, which provides for the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine at the expense of European partners. Under this mechanism, Kyiv can receive air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition.

The first batches of military equipment and weapons purchased under the PURL program arrived in Ukraine in September, and new deliveries are expected in the near future.

Earlier, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reported that 21 countries had joined the initiative, but their number has since increased.

As of now, 24 countries are participating in PURL, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In addition, under the program, Ukraine was to receive weapons from US warehouses worth about $5 billion by the end of 2025.