The United Kingdom provides £1.6 billion loan to reinforce Ukraine's air defense

Ukraine will receive over 5,000 LMM (Lightweight Multirole Missile) interceptors and RapidRanger launchers under the large-scale LMM-RapidRanger project. 

The delivery will be financed through a loan guaranteed by UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UK government's export credit agency.

This initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine's air defense by 2030 and will be carried out in cooperation with the British company Thales, Ukrainian subcontractors, and the UK government. 

In addition to providing state-of-the-art systems, the project involves localizing production, transferring technology, and strengthening Ukraine’s defense industry.

The LMM is a modern British interceptor missile, specially adapted to destroy Shahed drones, and has already demonstrated its effectiveness in combat operations from 2022 to 2024.

Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov emphasized the importance of this agreement: “This project is another step in enhancing our air defense. LMM missiles and RapidRanger systems will enable Ukraine to protect its skies with even greater effectiveness. Furthermore, the participation of Ukrainian businesses in this project will reinforce our strategic independence. I am grateful to the UK government, Thales, and all those who support us in the fight for the freedom of Ukraine and all of Europe.” 

At the same time, John Healey highlighted that supporting Ukraine remains a strategic priority for London.

“Three years have passed since Putin's full-scale invasion began, and this is a decisive moment for Ukraine's future and the security of all of Europe. We all aspire to a stable and lasting peace. As demonstrated in today’s meeting, the United Kingdom will continue to lead international efforts to assist Ukraine in securing a ceasefire and sustainable peace. We will not put this peace at risk by overlooking the war. The new assistance will enhance Ukraine’s defense against drone and missile attacks and help deter further Russian aggression following the cessation of hostilities,” stated the UK Secretary of State for Defence.