Ukraine ratifies £2 bln deal with Britain for air defense and repair bases

Ukraine's government will submit to the Verkhovna Rada [Ukraine's parliament – ed.]a draft law on ratifying the Framework Agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom. The agreement aims to develop the countries' defense capabilities.

Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal stated this.

"Today, the government is submitting to the Verkhovna Rada a draft law on ratifying the Framework Agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom to support the development of our defense capabilities.

Under this agreement, the United Kingdom will provide us with up to 2 billion pounds for the purchase of air defense systems and air defense missiles, as well as for the organization of repair bases for military equipment and other weapons," Shmyhal said.

According to him, such bases will also be located in Ukraine.

The allocated funds will also help significantly strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities.

"We are grateful to the Government and people of the United Kingdom for supporting us on the path to our victory," the Prime Minister said.

For reference:

Recently, Ukraine and Britain signed an agreement on a 100-year partnership. The agreement will be valid for the next 100 years unless either party wants to withdraw.

The relevant document will promote military cooperation between the countries in maritime security through a new structure to strengthen security in the Baltic, Black, and Azov seas and deter ongoing Russian aggression.

It will also bring together experts to develop scientific and technological partnerships in such areas as:

• health and disease protection,
• agricultural technology,
• space and drones,
• as well as to build friendship through educational projects.

In addition, a new British-developed grain inspection scheme will be launched to track stolen grain from occupied Ukrainian territories.

The document also consolidates the UK's position as Ukraine's priority partner in:

• the energy sector,
• a strategy for extracting critical minerals,
• the production of "green" steel.

After the signing, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the transfer of 150 artillery guns and the Gravehawk mobile air defense system to Ukraine.

He also stated that in 2025, Britain would provide Ukraine with more military assistance "than ever before."

It is worth noting that two Gravehawk prototypes have already been tested in Ukraine.

"Two prototypes of the air defense system were tested in Ukraine in September [2024. – ed.], and another 15 will be transferred this year," they added.