Ukraine signs one of its largest security agreements ever: Details

On March 2, during a visit to the UK, the Ukrainian delegation led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reached a strategic agreement. The deal includes launching the large-scale LMM-RapidRanger project to bolster Ukraine’s air defense.

“As part of this initiative, we will receive more than 5,000 LMM (Lightweight Multirole Missile) interceptors and launchers for them,” Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said.

He explained that LMM missiles are high-precision interceptors capable of effectively destroying Shahed-type drones. The minister emphasized that these missiles have already proven their effectiveness in battles from 2022 to 2024.

“This agreement is one of the largest in Ukraine’s history in the security and defense sector. The $1.6 billion project is designed to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense through 2030. It is funded through a loan guaranteed by the UK government agency UK Export Finance (UKEF),” Umerov stated.

According to the defense minister, the project will be implemented in cooperation with the British company Thales, Ukrainian enterprises, and the UK government.

He noted that in addition to supplying weaponry, the intergovernmental agreement includes:

• Localization of production;
• Technology transfer.

According to Umerov, this will enhance Ukraine’s strategic independence in air defense.

“I am grateful to our British allies for their unwavering support of Ukraine in the fight for freedom!” the minister added.

Earlier today, a summit dedicated to Ukraine was held in London. It was attended by leaders from more than 10 countries, as well as senior EU and NATO officials.

During a press conference following the summit, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a new agreement to assist Ukraine.

He stated that the deal would allow Ukraine to use £1.6 billion in UK export financing to purchase an additional 5,000 air defense missiles.