UK Announces £1.6bn Missile Deal to Boost Ukraine’s Defences
The UK has announced a £1.6bn deal to supply Ukraine with over 5,000 air defence missiles, which is expected to result in a major boost for both Ukraine’s security and the UK’s economy. Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the agreement on Sunday following a summit with European leaders, emphasizing his “unwavering” support for Ukraine. The missiles will be produced by Thales in Belfast, creating 200 new jobs and supporting 700 more, while also benefiting companies across the UK’s defence supply chain.
This is the largest contract ever awarded to Thales in Belfast, and will triple the factory’s production of lightweight multirole missiles (LMM). The LMMs, which are already used by Ukrainian forces, are designed to counter drones, missile strikes, and other threats. Defence Secretary John Healey stressed the importance of maintaining support for Ukraine, stating that the deal “will help deter further Russian aggression following any end to the fighting.”
Beyond military aid, the deal plays a key role in the UK’s economic strategy. By increasing defence spending, the government aims to drive job creation and economic growth across the country. This investment is part of a broader plan to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a long-term goal of reaching 3% in the next parliament. The UK has also committed £3bn annually to support Ukraine, ensuring continued military assistance.
The agreement builds on the 100 Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine, signed in Kyiv earlier this year, which provides £3.5bn in export finance for Ukraine to purchase military equipment from British firms. The contract also involves a Ukrainian industry partner, which will manufacture launchers and control vehicles, further strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities.
As tensions remain high in Europe, Starmer is pushing for international cooperation, working with key allies—including the US—to ensure Ukraine can negotiate peace from a position of strength. With the UK and its partners ramping up efforts, this deal signals a firm commitment to Ukraine’s security and a major step in fortifying European stability.
