UK pledges record $3.47bn in military aid and drone supply to Ukraine, bolstering defense ties
This significant visit by the British Prime Minister led to the signing of a crucial security cooperation document. The document serves as an extension of the G7 countries' agreement reached during the NATO summit in Vilnius. The agreement aims to facilitate the exchange of intelligence information, bolster cybersecurity, and enhance medical and military training as well as the cooperation in defense industry.
5:00 AM EST, January 13, 2024
The UK plans to increase its military aid to Ukraine for the years 2024 and 2025, aiming for an approximate total of $3.47 billion. Notably, this proposed amount is about $277 million higher than the aid provided in 2022 and 2023. The proposed funding of this size is particularly significant, almost matching half of Ukraine's budget allocated for armaments.
UK to finance armament
The exact type of weaponry that the UK will finance from this budget has not been specified. However, discussions are ongoing about funding for long-range missiles, air-defense elements, and 105 and 155 mm artillery ammunition.
ASRAAM missiles (Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile) could be a key component of the supplies, as outlined in a publication by Lukasz Michalik. This modern anti-aircraft equipment would be crucial for combating Russian helicopters - an application also emphasized by Przemyslaw Juraszek.
The funding statement noted, "The financial support will employ the best of British military knowledge and defense production to secure Ukraine's victory on the battlefield, including in critical areas such as long-range missiles, air defense, artillery ammunition, and maritime security."
Largest drone supply to Ukraine
In tandem with this announcement, it was revealed that $277 million will be allocated from the budget for the urgent procurement and production of drones, inclusive of observation, strike, and naval types.
This pledge will result in the largest ever delivery of drones to Ukraine from any country. Most of the drones are anticipated to be produced in the UK, with the Ministry of Defense collaborating with international partners to significantly ramp up the volume of drones delivered to Ukrainian defense," the statement concluded.
