UK secures over $40 million drone deal with New Zealand to aid Ukraine

The UK has signed contracts worth 30 million pounds ($40.1 million) with SYOS Aerospace, a New Zealand-based uncrewed vehicle manufacturer, for the supply of drones to support Ukraine.

These contracts are part of the UK's ongoing efforts to assist Ukraine in its defence against Russia, Caliber.Az reports via the message posted on the UK’s government’s website.

SYOS Aerospace, which operates a manufacturing facility in Fareham, Hampshire, will provide cutting-edge drone technology designed to enhance Ukraine's capabilities on the battlefield. The deal is expected to create 45 jobs at the Hampshire facility and supports nine UK-based companies through various subcontracts, aligning with the government’s broader economic strategy to drive both growth and security.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce the drone contracts during a visit on April 22 with his New Zealand counterpart, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The leaders will also visit a training facility where Ukrainian soldiers are being trained as part of Operation Interflex, a joint military initiative involving both the UK and New Zealand. 

As part of the visit, New Zealand is anticipated to extend its support for the training program in the UK until the end of 2025, further solidifying the two countries' commitment to Ukraine’s defence. In addition to the drone deal, Starmer and Luxon will discuss ways to strengthen defence and security cooperation between their nations. Defence ministers from both countries have been tasked with working on a new, updated defence agreement to enhance the relationship and address emerging global security challenges.

By Naila Huseynova