Ukraine and the United Kingdom have signed a major security and defense agreement aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s air defense capabilities through a £1.6 billion project.
During the Ukrainian delegation’s visit to Britain on March 2, a strategic deal was reached to launch the large-scale LMM-RapidRanger project, designed to enhance Ukraine’s aerial defense systems.
“Under this initiative, we will receive more than 5,000 LMM (Light Multirole Missile) interceptor rockets and their launch systems,” said Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
He emphasized that LMM missiles are high-precision interceptors that have proven highly effective in neutralizing Shahed-type drones. These weapons have already demonstrated their reliability in combat operations between 2022 and 2024.
“This is one of the largest security and defense agreements in Ukraine’s history. The £1.6 billion project is set to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense until 2030 and will be financed through a loan guaranteed by the UK’s export credit agency, UK Export Finance (UKEF),” Umerov announced.
The defense minister highlighted that the project will be implemented in collaboration with the British company Thales, Ukrainian manufacturers, and the UK government.
Beyond weapons deliveries, the agreement also includes localized production and technology transfers, which Umerov described as a significant step toward Ukraine’s strategic independence in air defense.
“We are grateful to the UK government and all our partners for supporting Ukraine in its fight for freedom!” he stated.
Earlier today, a high-level summit on Ukraine was held in London, attended by leaders from over 10 countries, as well as top officials from the European Union and NATO.
