The UK has pledged 30,000 drones to Ukraine under a £45M contract to boost uncrewed surveillance and attack capabilities.
The UK has reaffirmed its leadership in supporting Ukraine, with Defense Secretary John Healey announcing on Thursday that 30,000 drones will be sent to Ukraine as part of a £45 million ($55 million) contract.
Healey made the announcement during a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, alongside Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds.
The drones, funded by the International Drone Capability Coalition co-led by the UK and Latvia, will bolster Ukraine's uncrewed surveillance and attack capabilities, as stated by the British government.
The coalition, which also includes contributions from Denmark, the Netherlands, Latvia, and Sweden, has seen the UK commit £15 million to the initiative so far.
Healey emphasized the significance of the initiative, noting, “The fierce courage of the Ukrainian people continues to inspire the world, and this meeting of more than 50 nations sends a clear message to Putin about the international community’s unwavering support for Ukraine.”
He reaffirmed the UK's long-term commitment to Ukraine, pledging £3 billion annually in military aid.
“Our commitment to provide £3 billion a year of military aid for as long as it takes will ensure Ukraine can defend itself and is essential to protect the security of the UK – because the defense of the UK starts in Ukraine,” Healey said.
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