Britain will help Ukraine with drones: $500 million for a new phase of war with Russia
4 June 17:21
Official London is investing nearly $500 million in drones for Ukraine. This is stated in a press release posted on the UK government website, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
This is a record investment of $472 million (about £350 million) to expand the production and supply of drones for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This step is part of a large-scale package of military assistance to Ukraine worth £4.5 billion, which is planned for this year.
The main goal is to increase the number of drones sent to the frontline tenfold: from 10,000 in 2024 to 100,000 in 2025. This is an unprecedented figure even within NATO, although the Alliance itself constantly emphasizes the new paradigm of modern warfare – drones as the main tool of deterrence and offense.
Why drones are a key element of modern warfare
The use of drones by the Ukrainian military has long proven to be effective. In the context of a protracted full-scale conflict, drones have become a critical component of tactics in both reconnaissance and engagement of enemy targets. The ability to quickly adjust artillery fire, attack equipment, and provide a tactical advantage in the face of constant changes on the battlefield is what largely holds the front line on the Ukrainian side.
That is why the UK is betting on scaling up the drone program. This is not only support for Ukraine, but also an element of its own security: a stable Ukraine means a stable eastern flank of NATO.
After the Armed Forces of Ukraine demonstrated the effectiveness of drones in defending against Putin’s illegal invasion, the UK is doubling its investment in drones with British defense companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises, supporting the British economy and jobs as part of the government’s “Plan for Change,” the UK Government emphasizes.
What else is included in the aid package
In addition to the drones, London envisages the supply of 140,000 artillery shells, the expansion of the Ukrainian military training program with additional funding of £247 million, and support through the NATO NSATU trust fund. These funds will be used to provide Ukrainian units with fuel, spare parts, communications equipment and gear.
Artillery is crucial to Ukraine’s military efforts, deterring Putin’s forces from making significant gains on the frontline. With supply chains under unprecedented strain around the world, securing a reliable source of artillery ammunition is vital to Ukraine’s defense,” the British Government emphasizes.
The UK is also providing low-cost drones that can drop explosives on Russian positions. These two types of drones, as well as FPV systems, are reportedly responsible for 60-70% of the damage currently being done to Russian equipment.
Geopolitical significance of the investment
This investment also has a strategic economic dimension. By supporting drone production, the UK is boosting its own defense industry, including small and medium-sized businesses specializing in innovative solutions. This is a signal to other European countries: helping Ukraine is not only a moral obligation, but also an opportunity for a technological breakthrough.
What’s in store for the future
British Defense Secretary John Healey emphasized that London is committed to long-term support for Kyiv, regardless of the developments at the front.
And Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov thanked for the assistance, emphasizing its crucial importance for the country’s defense capabilities.
The UK is investing a record £350 million to deliver 100,000 drones to Ukraine in 2025. I am grateful to the British government, people and Minister John Healey for this important decision. Ukraine deeply appreciates the UK’s leadership in supporting our fight for freedom,” the head of the relevant ministry wrote on social media.
“Against the backdrop of threats from Russia and growing instability in the region, the UK is demonstrating that the principle that ‘assistance to Ukraine is an investment in Europe’s common security’ is being put into practice.”
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