Ukraine and European Union are preparing joint projects in field of drones, air defense and Deep Strike, - Ministry of Defense
Ukraine and the European Union are working to increase funding for defense needs and launch joint projects in the fields of drones, air defense, and long-range capabilities.
This was reported by Censor.NET, citing the press office of the Ministry of Defense.
During a meeting between Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius, and EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Mathernova, the key issue was ensuring flexible funding to meet the needs of the Ukrainian military and support the development of Europe’s defense industry.
Flexible funding and defense priorities
The parties discussed mechanisms that will enable funding to be directed toward critical areas of Ukraine’s defense in accordance with the War Plan. This includes, in particular, support for the production of unmanned systems and counter-drone capabilities, as well as the development of long-range strike capabilities.
Mykhailo Fedorov emphasized that the release of EU loan funds is critical for Ukraine's defense
The Ukrainian side emphasized the need for modern European solutions in the area of deep strike, which are necessary to compel Russia to make peace.
Mykhailo Fedorov also emphasized that it is critically important for Ukraine’s defense to unlock the €90 billion EU loan.
Joint projects and integration with the European defense industry
Particular attention was paid to the development of joint defense-industrial projects between Ukraine and EU countries.
Ukraine has confirmed its readiness to test new technological solutions in real combat conditions and to procure those that have proven effective. This includes, in particular, drones and affordable anti-drone solutions.
Attention was focused on the development of joint defense-industrial projects between Ukraine and EU countries
The parties also discussed the potential for joint projects under EU instruments designed to support the defense industry.
In particular, the discussion focused on opportunities within the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP). This initiative enables the launch of joint projects between Ukraine and EU countries in the field of defense production, such as:
- drones;
- air defense systems;
- weapons.
Ukraine has already expressed interest in joint projects in the fields of drones and missiles.
€260 million has been allocated under the Ukraine Support Instrument (USI) for the restoration and modernization of Ukraine’s defense industrial base. This is an important step toward integrating Ukraine’s capabilities into the European defense industry.
The Development of Air Defense and New Defense Solutions
During the meeting, the parties separately discussed the prospects for implementing joint initiatives in the field of air defense. They discussed the possible development of anti-ballistic solutions, including the creation of a missile designed to intercept ballistic targets.
Mykhailo Fedorov thanked the European Union for its consistent support of Ukraine and its willingness to strengthen cooperation in the field of defense.
