Khmara discusses strengthening air defence, long-range capabilities with Canadian counterpart

Ukrainian Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara met with Canadian counterpart to discuss bolstering Ukraine's air defense and long-range capabilities. The meeting, as reported by Ukrinform, took place while citing the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence. Khmara expressed gratitude to Canada for its assistance in procuring crucial PAC-3 missiles for Patriot air defense systems through the JUMPSTART mechanism. These missiles are expected to enhance Ukraine's defense against Russian ballistic missile assaults.

During the discussion, Khmara emphasized the increasing emphasis on asymmetric operations against enemy forces and intensified deep-strike operations targeting facilities involved in Russia's war against Ukraine. This includes factories that manufacture Russian weapons. He stressed the importance of supplying ammunition for F-16 aircraft cannons, stating that "The vast majority of jet-powered drones are destroyed by our F-16s.

20mm ammunition for these aircraft is a critical resource. It is important to receive supplies as quickly as possible and reduce delivery times and procedures."

The ministers also debated measures to expedite the upcoming shipment of PAC-3 missiles. In addition, Khmara briefed the Canadian counterpart on the battlefield situation, stating that Ukraine is striving to establish drone superiority. Drones play a vital role in various tasks, both combat-related and logistical, and Ukraine is urging its partners to prioritize support for purchasing effective Ukrainian-made drones for the Defense Forces.

Notably, this meeting precedes the upcoming Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, during which the package of further military assistance to Ukraine will be detailed.