The defence company Ukrainian Armoured Vehicles and the European missile group MBDA have signed a strategic partnership agreement, according to MBDA’s official website.
The partnership provides for the exchange of technologies and the development of joint production programmes. The first two areas of cooperation will focus on long-range strike capabilities and countering unmanned aerial systems.
The parties are also considering the creation of a joint venture.
“MBDA brings experience in the development, production and support of missile systems. Ukrainian Armoured Vehicles contributes practical expertise in the design and production of armoured vehicles, mortars, ammunition, artillery shells, as well as ground and aerial unmanned systems. The agreement reflects the intention of both sides to combine European technological expertise with Ukrainian combat experience, production flexibility and innovative potential,” the statement said.
MBDA is one of Europe’s largest missile manufacturers. It develops key missile systems for NATO countries’ armed forces, including the Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missile, the Meteor air-to-air missile, the Akeron anti-tank system, and the CAMM family of surface-to-air missiles. Together with Sweden’s Saab, MBDA also co-developed the Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile.