Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a landmark defense cooperation deal on Thursday in London, aimed at bolstering drone production and integrating the defense industries of both nations. The agreement, sealed during Zelensky's visit to Downing Street, focuses on the rapid development and delivery of battlefield technologies.

According to the UK government, Ukraine will share real-time battlefield data with British defense firms. This data will be used to accelerate the design, mass production, and frontline delivery of advanced drone systems. “Ukraine is the world leader in drone design and execution, with drone technology evolving, on average, every six weeks,” said an official UK statement.

Deal to Enable Co-Development Beyond the War

The partnership initially centers on drone-based air defense technologies, but officials emphasized that the agreement lays the foundation for long-term co-development. “This agreement also paves the way for both countries to work on capabilities for the future, long after the war finishes,” the UK government noted.

The first defense contracts between British and Ukrainian companies are expected to be signed in the coming weeks. Over the next three years, the initiative will be financed through the UK’s £4.5 billion ($6 billion) military aid package, with an additional £3 billion ($4 billion) pledged annually for future support.

Ukraine Eyes Defense Export Market

Zelensky's visit also highlighted Kyiv’s expanding ambitions to become a global exporter of combat-tested military systems. As part of his newly announced “Build with Ukraine” initiative, Ukraine aims to form manufacturing partnerships with European allies and export drones, missiles, and artillery systems.

Several countries, including Germany, Denmark, Lithuania, and Norway, have shown interest in acquiring Ukrainian-made technologies and participating in future co-production deals.