The French association GICAT will assist in attracting investment to defense industry projects for the benefit of Ukraine

The French Defense and Security Industry Association (GICAT) has established an office in Ukraine and will collaborate more closely with Ukrainian manufacturers to advance joint projects.

Deputy Minister of Defence for European Integration Sergiy Boyev met with representatives of GICAT, headed by retired General Marc-Henri Figuier. The Deputy Minister congratulated the Association on opening its office in Kyiv and expressed hope for close cooperation between the French and Ukrainian defense industries.

“Ukraine has established a range of essential priorities within its production framework. Some of the production can be handled internally, but certain elements depend on partnerships with companies from Europe, particularly from France. Our partnership aims to foster industrial collaboration and investment in the defense sector,” said Sergiy Boyev.  

He also briefed the French delegation on Ukraine's priorities in defense production, highlighting areas where support from French companies is particularly needed. The primary requirement is air defense and man-portable air defense systems capable of eliminating enemy UAVs and missiles.

Marc-Henri Figuier, Vice President for International Cooperation at the Association, briefed the Ukrainian side on the objectives outlined by the representative office in Ukraine. One of the key objectives is to assist in attracting investment to existing manufacturing projects and to facilitate long-term cooperation by establishing joint ventures.

“Our intention is to motivate French defense companies to establish a presence in Ukraine and collaborate with the local industry. Ukrainian experience is reflected in creative innovations, while French experience is embodied in technological advancements. That is why we see potential for joint projects,” Marc-Henri Figuier.

The parties discussed the frameworks for cooperation between Ukrainian and French industries, potential funding sources for specific projects, and the opportunities for localizing certain productions.