Ukraine and UK discuss air defence, missiles and drone countermeasures

Senior Ukrainian and British defence officials have discussed expanding military cooperation, including air defence, missile supplies and counter-drone capabilities, Ukraine’s defence ministry said.

Denys Khmara, Ukraine’s acting defence minister, and Mykhailo Drapatyi, the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, met Richard Knighton, Britain’s Chief of the Defence Staff, to review areas of potential cooperation.

According to the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, the talks focused on possible UK involvement in missile defence initiatives and the supply of missiles for air defence systems.

The discussions also covered the provision of Meteor missile systems for Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft, which Ukrainian officials say could enhance the country’s ability to counter Russian aviation.

In addition, the sides explored options for supplying systems designed to counter Shahed-type attack drones, which have been widely used in strikes against Ukraine. Funding for such measures could come from proceeds generated by frozen Russian assets, the ministry said.

“We are working to ensure that Ukraine, Britain and all of Europe are ready to counter modern threats and future challenges,” Khmara said.

By Tamilla Hasanova