In a significant escalation of military assistance, Britain is dramatically accelerating the delivery of an unprecedented fleet of 10,000 combat drones to Ukrainian forces, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps revealed during a high-stakes visit to Kyiv.
The massive drone package, valued at £125 million, forms part of a broader £325 million support package designed to bolster Ukraine's defensive capabilities against Russian aggression. This announcement comes as Ukrainian forces face critical ammunition shortages and intensified Russian assaults along the front lines.
Unprecedented Scale of Drone Warfare Support
"We're moving heaven and earth to get these vital capabilities to the frontlines faster than ever before," Shapps declared during meetings with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. The Defence Secretary emphasised that Britain is cutting through bureaucracy to ensure drones reach Ukrainian troops "in a matter of weeks rather than months."
The drone fleet represents the largest single commitment of unmanned aerial vehicles from any nation to date and includes:
- Advanced surveillance drones for intelligence gathering
- First-person view (FPV) drones for precision strikes
- Long-range attack drones capable of hitting deep behind enemy lines
- Maritime drones to target Black Sea naval assets
Strengthening Ukraine's Defence Manufacturing
Beyond immediate equipment transfers, Britain is investing £35 million specifically to boost Ukraine's domestic drone production capabilities. This strategic move aims to create a sustainable defence manufacturing ecosystem within Ukraine, reducing dependency on international supplies.
"This isn't just about giving fish, but teaching how to fish," a defence source explained. "By building Ukraine's own manufacturing capacity, we're helping ensure they can maintain this crucial advantage long-term."
Global Coalition Against Russian Aggression
The announcement comes as Britain takes leadership of the international drone capability coalition, coordinating efforts among allies to ensure Ukraine maintains technological superiority in unmanned warfare. This coalition represents a fundamental shift in modern combat support, recognising drones as increasingly decisive in contemporary battlefield dynamics.
With this latest commitment, Britain's total military aid to Ukraine now exceeds £7 billion, cementing the UK's position as one of Kyiv's most steadfast allies in its struggle against Russian invasion forces.
