In the presence of President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and the UK's Defense Minister John Healey signed an agreement between the governments on official credit support for developing Ukraine's defense capabilities.
The agreement will enable the initiation of Ukrainian-British projects in this area, including the supply, repair, and partial production of air defense systems, armored vehicles, and ammunition.
The agreement stipulates that British suppliers can enter into credit agreements and contracts with Ukraine for 2 billion pounds sterling. This amount is not final and may be increased in the future.
By 2026, this will allow Ukraine's Defense Forces to be equipped with air defense systems, radar, and offensive systems, obtain technologies, and establish partial production of barrels, spare parts, and components for artillery installations and Western-standard armored vehicles.
Due to the necessity for rapid development of capabilities and the high cost of defense projects, Ukraine cannot currently fund them from its state budget. The loan repayment term is 15 years.
