Evgeniy Khmara and Tore O. Sandvik discuss air defence and further Norwegian support
Ahead of the Ramstein-format meeting, Ukraine’s Minister of Defence Evgeniy Khmara spoke by phone with Norway’s Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik.
The parties outlined priorities for support to Ukraine for the rest of this year and for next year. The teams of both ministries maintain constant dialogue and systematic cooperation.
We value the consistency and strength of this support. It gives us predictability and the ability to direct resources to the most urgent needs, primarily unmanned systems and efforts to strengthen air defence.
The ministers focused on steps to strengthen air defence as quickly as possible.
Ways to strengthen Ukraine’s air defence: MANPADS, PURL, and NASAMS
In particular, the talks covered the procurement of man-portable air-defence systems (MANPADS), contributions to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism, and accelerated deliveries of air defence missiles.
The ministers also discussed supplies of 20 mm ammunition for F-16 aircraft. These aircraft cannon rounds are highly effective in countering jet-powered drones.
Another topic was projects to integrate missiles into NASAMS air defence systems. The parties discussed progress in implementing them.
Defence industry cooperation and purchases of Ukrainian drones
The call also covered cooperation between the defence industries and defence companies of Ukraine and Norway.
Tore O. Sandvik confirmed Norway’s plans to continue large-scale purchases of Ukrainian-made drones to meet the needs of the Defence Forces of Ukraine.
We have significant potential to expand our partnership in the defence industry and in other areas that will strengthen both Ukraine and Norway.
