Ukraine and the United Kingdom Discussed Strengthening Air Defense and the Supply of Gripen Fighters
On August 6, Yevhen Khmara, Ukraine’s Acting Minister of Defense, met with British Defense Minister Wes Streeting, during which the two sides discussed the situation on the front lines, Ukraine’s needs, and further defense cooperation.
Also participating in the talks were Brigadier General Serhiy Sobko, Acting Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and a representative of Ukrainian intelligence. The Ukrainian side briefed the British delegation on the current situation on the battlefield, current threats, and measures in response to Russia’s actions.
According to Khmara, the United Kingdom confirmed its readiness to continue providing Ukraine with long-term support amounting to at least 3 billion pounds sterling per year.
During the meeting, the parties discussed four key areas of cooperation. The first concerns strengthening air defense, specifically the supply of systems to counter ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as accelerating the transfer of radars and the development of the radar network.
The second issue was aviation capabilities. Ukraine is counting on support for a project to supply Gripen fighter jets equipped with Meteor missiles to counter Russian aviation.
The parties also discussed countermeasures against Shahed-type attack drones. According to the Chief of the General Staff, an agreement has already been reached to supply hundreds of anti-drone missiles this year.
Special attention was given to supporting Ukrainian drone production. The Ukrainian side is counting on the continuation and increase of funding for this sector, in particular through revenues from frozen Russian assets.
“We agreed to further develop a long-term and mutually beneficial defense partnership. I am grateful to the United Kingdom for its leadership and strong support for Ukraine,” noted Yevhen Khmara.
The acting Minister of Defense of Ukraine announced this on Telegram.
As a reminder, the meeting between British Defense Minister Wes Streeting and the Ukrainian delegation took place without the participation of Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Valeriy Zaluzhny. The parties have offered different explanations for his absence.
As a reminder, Zelenskyy confirmed Umerov’s appointment as head of the Foreign Intelligence Service.
