**UK and Ukraine Seal Major Deal on Air Defense Missiles**
The United Kingdom and Ukraine have announced a major agreement to supply Ukraine with Thales air defense missiles. The deal, worth £2.5 billion ($3.1 billion), will see the UK produce 5,000 Thales-made missiles over the next 19 years. These missiles will be used by Ukraine to boost its air defenses against Russian attacks.
**Ukraine’s Air Defense Needs**
Kyiv has been urging Western partners to provide more air defense coverage as Russian forces continue to target Ukrainian cities with drones, missiles, and aerial bombs. The new deal is a significant step in meeting this need, providing Ukraine with a total of 5,000 missiles, including the high-speed Starstreak and versatile Martlet models.
**Commentary**
This agreement is a major boost for Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and demonstrates the UK’s commitment to supporting its ally in the face of Russian aggression. The provision of Thales-made missiles will give Ukraine an effective tool against drones and low-flying aircraft, helping to protect its cities from attack.
**Deeper Analysis**
The deal is also significant for the UK’s defense industry, as it marks a major investment in producing Thales-produced missiles for Western air defense systems. This project is expected to provide skilled jobs in the UK and strengthen international ties between the two countries. The agreement will be signed on July 10 during the Ukraine Reconstruction Conference in Rome.
**Additional Assistance**
In addition to the missile supplies, the UK has pledged bilateral assistance to Ukraine totaling up to £283 million ($354 million) through 2026. This support package is designed to help Ukraine with reconstruction efforts and provide the country with hope for a better future.
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