BRUSSELS
The United Kingdom has announced a major £500 million air defence aid package for Ukraine, aimed at strengthening Kyiv’s ability to defend against ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks. The commitment was unveiled by Defence Secretary John Healey during the Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting in Brussels, where allied ministers gathered to coordinate continued support for Ukraine.
Under the new package, the UK will provide £150 million through NATO’s Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) to facilitate rapid procurement of air defence interceptors, alongside £390 million in British-manufactured equipment, including lightweight multirole missiles produced in Belfast. Officials stressed that the deployment of these systems will bolster Ukraine’s layered air defence network and provide critical protection for civilian infrastructure and population centres.
The announcement underscores Britain’s long-standing support for Kyiv and comes amid persistent Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. Defence Secretary Healey described the initiative as a top priority, emphasizing that air defence capabilities are vital to saving lives and maintaining Ukraine’s resilience against aerial threats.
The aid package forms part of a broader allied commitment. At the UDCG also known as the Ramstein format more than 50 countries pledged approximately $35 billion in additional military support for Ukraine, highlighting ongoing international solidarity in response to the war. Officials noted that coordination through the PURL initiative ensures rapid delivery and interoperability of advanced systems, enabling Ukrainian forces to respond effectively to attacks.
Ukraine welcomed the UK announcement, with officials noting that the new air defence capabilities will play a crucial role in defending both military and civilian targets. Allies emphasized the importance of maintaining unity, with Healey stating that collective action is essential to helping Ukraine sustain its defensive posture and ultimately secure peace.
The UK has previously supplied Ukraine with missiles, air defence systems, and technical assistance, and this latest package represents one of the largest single additions to Kyiv’s air defence capabilities. British officials also highlighted the importance of joint planning with NATO partners to ensure that equipment reaches the frontlines quickly and efficiently.
The new £500 million package signals a firm commitment by the United Kingdom to bolster Ukraine’s security while reinforcing NATO’s collective defence posture. As the conflict continues, allied nations have reiterated their determination to support Kyiv and provide the resources necessary to protect civilians and stabilize key regions under threat.
This announcement comes as the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, with repeated strikes against critical infrastructure emphasizing the ongoing need for robust defensive measures. British and allied leaders have emphasized that air defence will remain a top priority, reflecting the strategic importance of protecting civilian populations and supporting Ukraine’s long-term security objectives.
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