At the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, the United Kingdom confirmed a substantial package of military and economic support for Ukraine, aimed at strengthening its air defense and aiding long-term reconstruction. The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Minister for Trade and Development Gareth Thomas.
A central feature of the agreement is the UK's financial support to deliver two air defense systems and over 5,000 missiles, produced by Thales in Belfast. These systems are expected to improve Ukraine's ability to intercept russian drones and missiles, addressing one of its most urgent security needs.
Read more: Germany to Fund Two U.S.-Made Patriot Systems for Ukraine
The investment is backed by up to £2.5 billion in UK Export Finance guarantees, enabling Ukraine to procure British-made defense equipment while stimulating domestic manufacturing and preserving skilled jobs in the UK defense sector.
In parallel, the UK will provide £283 million in direct bilateral assistance for Ukraine in 2025-2026. This funding will be used across several areas, including humanitarian aid, infrastructure repair, energy resilience, and long-term recovery efforts.
The UK also announced targeted funding for governance and energy reforms, and a £1 million contribution to green transition projects. British International Investment will further support Ukraine's private sector, including through €30 million investment in agribusiness.
Officials described the package as mutually beneficial: helping Ukraine resist aggression while reinforcing the UK's industrial base. It builds on the broader £18.3 billion in UK aid to Ukraine since the start of russia's full-scale invasion.
The initiative is part of the UK-Ukraine 100-Year Partnership, a framework for long-term cooperation in defense, economic development, and reconstruction.
As Defense Express previously reported, Germany has agreed to finance the purchase of two U.S.-produced Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine, including the missiles needed to operate them, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced. The statement came amid growing efforts to strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities in the face of continued russian missile and drone attacks.
Read more: Storm Shadow / SCALP to Be Upgraded as Paris and London Modernize Production
