UK firms set to manufacture weapons inside Ukraine to boost struggle against Russia

UK manufacturers are one step closer to producing their weapons in Ukraine, following the signing of an agreement between the two countries.

The UK-Ukraine deal came during Britain's largest trade mission to Ukraine, which saw 29 UK businesses travel to the country to find opportunities for co-operation in aid of the struggle against Russia.

The agreement is designed to enable both countries to work together to tackle security challenges, enhance defence industries and deliver high-profile joint projects over the coming months.

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"Our partnership is developing, and today we are one step closer to British manufacturers being the first to start producing their weapons in Ukraine," said Ukraine's Minister of Strategic Industries, Alexander Kamyshin.

During the trade mission to Kyiv, UK defence company BAE Systems also agreed a contract with the UK's MOD to maintain and repair gifted L119 Light Guns in Ukraine.

This means L119s which were donated by the UK to Ukraine can be serviced in the country and returned to the frontline more quickly, providing vital support for Ukraine's defence infrastructure.

Increased co-operation could see dozens of projects between some of the UK’s biggest defence companies, Ukraine’s armed forces and Ukrainian companies – from establishing strategic military repair facilities to rebuilding civilian infrastructure and implementing technology to defend against cyber-attacks.

Defence Procurement Minister James Cartlidge said: "This is the latest demonstration of the UK's unwavering commitment to Ukraine, as they continue to fight back against Putin's illegal invasion.

"This is now a war of industrial production and so it is key that we unleash the capability, capacity, ingenuity, and innovation of our respective industrial bases.  

"The framework arrangement will augment this joint activity, further supporting the brave men and women of the armed forces of Ukraine."

Trade Policy Minister Greg Hands, who accompanied the business delegation and signed the arrangement, said: "The UK has led the world in support of Ukraine following Russia's full-scale invasion.  

"Now is the time to double down on our support so Ukraine not only wins the war but emerges from it as a strong and resilient country.

"Defence is a critical element of that, which is why we're facilitating further defence trade between our nations with this agreement. 

"Our trade missions, alongside this signing, are testament to the UK's integral role in boosting Ukraine's war-time economy and facilitating their long-term recovery."