Ukrainian company and German missile maker agree on strategic partnership
European missile manufacturer MBDA and Ukrainian Armor (Ukrainska Bronetekhnika) have signed a memorandum of strategic partnership in Berlin that covers deep strike (long-range) capabilities and counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS).
Source: an announcement by the parties following the signing of the agreement
Details: MBDA is one of the world's largest missile manufacturers and a leading European company in the field of precision weapons. The group develops and produces a number of key missile systems for NATO countries, including the Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile, the Storm Shadow/SCALP long-range missile, Akeron anti-tank systems, CAMM-family surface-to-air missiles and Meteor air-to-air missiles.
The companies said the partnership sets out long-term cooperation, technology and expertise sharing, the development of joint production programmes and the introduction of new defence solutions.
The first areas of cooperation were identified as building capabilities in deep strike and counter-drone systems. The companies pointed out that these areas are critically important for securing an advantage on the battlefield in modern high-intensity warfare.
The parties will also consider the possibility of establishing joint ventures as part of the partnership.
MBDA said it intends to support the development of Ukraine's defence industry and help strengthen its autonomous production capabilities through its experience in designing and producing missile systems.
Ukrainian Armor, for its part, will contribute to the project through its practical experience in developing and producing armoured vehicles, mortar systems, ammunition, artillery shells and ground and aerial unmanned systems.
The companies said the agreement forms part of a broader strategic partnership programme between the parties, with new areas of cooperation to be announced later.
The partnership between one of Europe's largest missile manufacturers and a Ukrainian defence company is another example of deepening cooperation between the Ukrainian and European defence sectors amid Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine.
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