The Thales missile factory in Belfast has landed a significant deal to supply 5,000 air defense missiles to Ukraine, announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. This contract, estimated at up to £1.6 billion, will not only enhance Ukraine's military arsenal but also create 200 new jobs at the facility. The lightweight multirole missiles (LMMs) being manufactured have already been used by Ukrainian forces, highlighting their effectiveness.
Starmer introduced this extensive plan to fortify Ukraine's defense while aiming for long-term peace. Following a previous order that saw 650 missiles supplied, this new order emphasizes a much larger scale. The initial value of the contract stands at £1.16 billion, with potential extensions adding around £500 million, which would enable a Ukrainian partner to create missile launchers and control vehicles domestically.
The UK's Defence Secretary John Healey stressed that this contract is historic for Thales in Belfast, marking it as their largest ever. The deal aims to protect Ukraine from drone and missile threats and deter further Russian aggression. Funded by a loan backed by the UK Export Finance, this agreement is part of a broader £3.5 billion support package for Ukraine's defense needs, reinforcing the UK's commitment to aiding Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict.
Starmer introduced this extensive plan to fortify Ukraine's defense while aiming for long-term peace. Following a previous order that saw 650 missiles supplied, this new order emphasizes a much larger scale. The initial value of the contract stands at £1.16 billion, with potential extensions adding around £500 million, which would enable a Ukrainian partner to create missile launchers and control vehicles domestically.
The UK's Defence Secretary John Healey stressed that this contract is historic for Thales in Belfast, marking it as their largest ever. The deal aims to protect Ukraine from drone and missile threats and deter further Russian aggression. Funded by a loan backed by the UK Export Finance, this agreement is part of a broader £3.5 billion support package for Ukraine's defense needs, reinforcing the UK's commitment to aiding Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict.