LONDON/WASHINGTON (CHATNEWSTV) — Ukraine’s armed forces will receive advanced attack drones under a £30 million deal between the UK government and defense technology firm Anduril UK, as Britain deepens its military support to counter Russian aggression.
The agreement was announced ahead of UK Defence Secretary John Healey’s meeting with US counterpart Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon on Thursday. During his visit to Washington, Healey toured Anduril’s facility, underscoring Britain’s commitment to equipping Ukraine with cutting-edge defense technology.
“We are determined to achieve a secure, lasting peace in Ukraine, which means putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position to prevent any return to Russian aggression,” Healey said.
Under the contract, Anduril UK will supply Ukraine with Altius 600M and Altius 700M loitering munitions—drones designed to monitor areas and strike targets when necessary. The procurement is backed by the UK-administered International Fund for Ukraine, which has amassed over £1.3 billion in pledges from 10 nations.
The UK has already provided more than 10,000 drones to Ukraine’s armed forces, which have played a key role in disrupting Russian troop movements and targeting enemy positions. Additionally, Britain recently committed £1.6 billion in air defense missiles and a £2.26 billion loan using seized Russian assets.
Dr. Rich Drake, managing director of Anduril UK and Europe, praised the partnership: “Anduril UK is proud to partner with the UK Government, working hand in glove to deliver vital capabilities for the UK and its allies.”
The drone deal follows a high-profile meeting of world leaders in London last week, where Prime Minister Keir Starmer and allied nations reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining military support for Ukraine.
The UK government has pledged to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027—the largest sustained increase since the Cold War. Officials say defense investment not only strengthens security but also drives economic growth.
Ukraine is expected to receive the new drones, launchers, and spare parts in the coming months.
