Britain strengthens Ukraine’s defence with drones, training, and technology

The United Kingdom has delivered more than 85,000 military drones to Ukraine in the past six months, reflecting a significant ramp-up in production by British defence companies, according to a UK government report. The surge in deliveries is aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s capabilities on the front lines and enhancing battlefield support.

The UK’s shipments include tens of thousands of short-range FPV combat drones, which are employed for reconnaissance, precision strikes, and suppressing enemy activity beyond the immediate front. This production increase has been made possible through close collaboration among British firms and substantial investments in the defence sector.

As part of a record £4.5 billion aid package for regional defence and security, the UK has invested £600 million this year specifically to accelerate drone deliveries to Ukraine. These funds have also contributed to preserving jobs in both the UK and Ukraine.

In parallel, new interceptor drones, known as Octopus, are being developed to counter Iran-made Shahed strike drones. Around 35,000 interception systems are expected to be delivered to Ukraine in the coming months. Battlefield experience is being used to refine these technologies and speed up their deployment to operational units.

A pioneering industrial partnership has also been established to develop prototype drones for protecting critical infrastructure and civilians. British experts plan to deploy to Moldova to train local forces in counter-drone operations.

British Defence Secretary John Healey emphasised that increasing drone production and modernising air defences are essential to counter the escalating Russian threat to Ukraine and Europe. The Royal Air Force continues to participate in Operation Eastern Guard, patrolling Polish airspace and demonstrating the UK’s commitment to collective security.

The combination of active production, the introduction of new technologies, and allied training underscores Britain’s strategic commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s defence and stabilising the Euro-Atlantic region.

Separately, the UK has announced £20 million (approximately $27 million) in aid for water, sanitation, and hygiene in the Gaza Strip. These funds will be delivered through UNICEF, the World Food Programme, and the Norwegian Refugee Council to support populations affected by hunger and disease.

Additionally, Ukraine and the UK have agreed to jointly develop and produce interceptor drones specifically designed to counter massed Shahed attacks, which Russia deploys against Ukrainian targets on a daily basis.

By Tamilla Hasanova