UK Signs £2.5B Deal To Supply Ukraine With 5,000 Air Defense Missiles

UK to Supply Air Defense Missiles to Ukraine

London, July 10, 2025 –

In a significant show of support for Ukraine, the United Kingdom has finalized a £2.5 billion ($3.4 billion) deal to supply 5,000 air defense missiles to help counter Russian aerial threats. The agreement, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, marks a major step in strengthening Ukraine’s defenses amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

The deal, first announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on March 2, 2025, includes Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) and Martlet missiles, both produced by Thales, designed to take down drones and light aircraft.The £2.5 billion loan, backed by UK Export Finance, comes with a 19-year repayment plan, making it a sustainable commitment for Ukraine.

This financial structure ensures Kyiv can bolster its air defenses without immediate economic strain. The missiles will be produced at Thales’ Belfast factory, where production is set to triple, creating 200 new jobs and securing 700 existing ones. This economic boost is a win for Northern Ireland, showcasing how international aid can also support local communities.Beyond supplying missiles, the UK is collaborating with Ukrainian industries to develop launchers and command vehicles, fostering a partnership that enhances Ukraine’s self-reliance.

This deal aligns with broader European efforts to support Ukraine, as seen at the Rome conference, where leaders like Italy’s Giorgia Meloni and the EU’s Ursula von der Leyen discussed long-term reconstruction plans. The UK also pledged £283 million in bilateral aid for Ukraine in 2026, reinforcing its commitment to Kyiv’s resilience.The missiles are a critical addition to Ukraine’s arsenal, especially as Russian drone and missile attacks continue to target civilian and military infrastructure.

The European Court of Human Rights’ recent ruling holding Russia accountable for violations in Ukraine since 2014, including the downing of flight MH17, underscores the urgency of such support. For the UK, this deal is both a strategic move to counter Russian aggression and a humanitarian gesture to protect Ukrainian lives.

As Europe grapples with geopolitical challenges, from trade tensions to regional conflicts, the UK’s missile deal stands out as a practical step toward stability. It’s a reminder that solidarity can take the form of jobs in Belfast and protection in Kyiv, bridging nations in tough times.

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