The United Kingdom is supporting Ukraine’s efforts to modernise its defence procurement system through a £13 million annual programme focused on legislative reform, digital procurement tools and closer alignment with NATO and EU standards.
The cooperation was discussed during a meeting between Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Mstyslav Banik, UK Chargé d’Affaires Charlotte Suren, British Embassy representatives and experts involved in the UK Special Defence Adviser programme, known as SADR II.
The current phase of SADR II began on 1 April 2026 and provides technical assistance, institutional support and expert advice to Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence.
Defence procurement reform is one of the programme’s principal priorities, with British specialists assisting Ukrainian authorities in improving legislation, procedures and procurement management.
A significant part of the cooperation involves implementing recommendations from the Ukraine-NATO Strategic Defence Procurement Review. British experts are helping establish reform priorities, coordinate implementation and monitor progress.
Another major area is the digitalisation of military procurement. The programme provides financial and technical support for developing a new secure electronic procurement environment and expanding DOT-Chain Defence, Ukraine’s digital marketplace for defence supplies.
The cooperation also covers immediate operational needs, including the provision of generators for state quality assurance laboratories responsible for defence-related testing and inspections.
Banik emphasised that British assistance extends beyond financial contributions to include technical expertise, consultations and continuous cooperation with Ukrainian defence institutions.
The broader objective of SADR II is to strengthen Ukraine’s defence governance, improve institutional capabilities and bring management practices closer to NATO and EU standards.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence said the partnership would help make defence procurement more efficient and strengthen the country's ability to supply its armed forces during the war.
