UK, Ukraine Sign £2.5B Deal for 5,000 Air Defense Missiles

The United Kingdom and Ukraine have finalized a landmark £2.5 billion ($3.1 billion) defense deal to supply over 5,000 British-made Thales air defense missiles to Ukraine over the next 19 years. The agreement, described as historic by UK officials, aims to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities against ongoing Russian drone and missile attacks, with missiles compatible with Ukraine’s existing Vampire air defense systems. The deal will also support the UK defense industrial base, creating and safeguarding hundreds of skilled jobs, particularly at Thales facilities in Belfast and Belgium. British Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasized the UK's commitment to Ukraine's defense and reconstruction, framing the agreement as part of the UK’s broader Plan for Change to strengthen international ties and domestic industry. The missile package includes laser-guided projectiles with ranges up to 3,000 meters, providing a cost-effective and precise countermeasure against aerial threats. Additionally, the UK pledged up to £283 million in bilateral assistance to Ukraine through 2026, supporting recovery efforts beyond military aid.