Ukraine and Canada advance cooperation on air defence and support for Ukrainian drone production

Ukraine is coordinating with Canada on support for defence priorities, with a focus on air defence missiles, Ukrainian drones, and long-range munitions. These matters were discussed during a conversation between Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Mykhailo Fedorov, and Canada’s Minister of National Defence, David McGuinty.

AIM-9 missiles for F-16 aircraft

Mykhailo Fedorov thanked Canada for the AIM-9 missiles supplied to Ukraine’s F-16 fighter fleet. This was made possible through Canada’s efforts and Belgium’s logistical support. The missiles enhance Ukraine’s air defence capabilities and contribute to the interception of russian cruise missiles.

Ukraine is grateful to Canada and Belgium for this practical assistance, delivered in time to help counter a potential future attack. 

PURL and PAC-3 are critically important for defence against ballistic missiles

Mykhailo Fedorov briefed the Canadian side on the implementation of Ukraine’s AIR-LAND-ECONOMY defence strategy and the current needs of the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

Air defence is an important focus area. Ballistic missiles remain one of the most significant challenges facing Ukraine. Accordingly, the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism and additional partner contributions are critically important.

The Ukrainian side also asked Canada to support the procurement of PAC-3 missiles through the JUMPSTART mechanism. This is currently one of the key focus areas for strengthening protection against aerial threats. 

Ukrainian drones for the front line

The parties discussed the importance of procuring Ukrainian drones to meet frontline needs.

Mykhailo Fedorov called on Canada to support Ukrainian defence production through the “Danish model” and other available mechanisms. This enables resources to be directed toward solutions that have already demonstrated their effectiveness in combat.

Ukraine and Canada already have joint industrial projects that can strengthen the capabilities of both countries.

Pickup trucks and long-range artillery ammunition

The parties also explored options for supplying a significant number of diesel pickup trucks to the Defence Forces of Ukraine. 

They further discussed the importance of long-range artillery ammunition and the possibility of allocating funding through the “Czech Initiative.”

Canadian assistance delivering battlefield results

Ukraine received an important signal that Canada stands ready to support key Ukrainian defence priorities. For Ukraine, it is important that partner resources be directed toward high-impact assistance that delivers tangible results on the battlefield.