Anna Gvozdiar and Sergiy Boyev discuss strengthening defence industry cooperation with Belgian delegation

The Deputy Ministers of Defence of Ukraine, Anna Gvozdiar and Sergiy Boyev, met in Kyiv with the Belgian delegation led by Christophe de Nijs, Director-General for European Affairs and Coordination at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Belgium.

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for developing joint projects in the defence-industrial sector, including within the framework of cooperation with European Union member states.

“Our partnership with Belgium paves the way for deeper integration of Ukraine’s defence sector into the European industrial ecosystem. Current challenges call for solutions that cut the time from production to delivery and battlefield use,” Sergiy Boyev highlighted.

For her part, Anna Gvozdiar added that the key task is not only to procure ready-made weaponry, but also to advance joint manufacturing and technological development. “This applies to air defence systems, unmanned systems and munitions. It is a strategic level of cooperation that strengthens Ukraine and enhances Europe’s security,” she stressed.

Ukraine highly appreciates Belgium’s steady support, including its active involvement in NATO and EU initiatives — from financing critical defence requirements under PURL to contributing to the fighter aircraft transfer programme and advancing defence technology development. 

The parties explored opportunities for joint production of modern air defence systems, development of unmanned systems, and modernisation of weaponry in cooperation with Belgian companies.

The discussion also addressed the use of European financial instruments to support joint defence-industrial initiatives.

Anna Gvozdiar and Sergiy Boyev thanked the Belgian side for the consistent support and partnership, which help strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities and contribute to Europe’s overall security.