Ukraine, UK Explore Funding Counter-Shahed Systems From Frozen Russian Assets
Ukraine and the UK are exploring the procurement of systems to counter Shahed drones using revenues from frozen Russian assets as the two countries deepen cooperation on air defense.
This was discussed during a meeting between Ukraine’s Acting Defense Minister Evgeniy Khmara, Commander-in-Chief Mykhailo Drapatyi, and UK Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Iranian-designed Shahed loitering munitions have become one of Moscow’s primary long-range strike weapons.
Used in swarm attacks against Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure, the drones have driven demand for lower-cost interception systems that complement expensive surface-to-air missiles.
The talks also covered joint anti-ballistic missile projects, additional missiles for Ukraine’s existing air defense systems, and the potential supply of Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles for future Gripen fighter aircraft.
Khmara said Ukraine is working with its partners to strengthen air defenses while preparing new measures to increase pressure on Russian forces and expand the use of unmanned systems on the battlefield.
Ukraine Expands Efforts to Counter Shahed
Ukrainian firms have steadily expanded their counter-Shahed capabilities as Russia continues its drone attacks.
In July, SkyFall unveiled the P1-SUN JetKiller, a high-speed interceptor designed to defeat jet-powered Shahed drones. The company said the system is already undergoing combat trials, with serial production expected to begin in August at a planned rate of up to 50,000 units per month.
In June, Ukraine demonstrated an automated counter-drone system that performs 95 percent of the interception process, leaving operators responsible only for target detection and final engagement approval.
In March, The Fourth Law introduced the Zerov-8 VTOL interceptor, capable of reaching speeds of 326 kilometers (202 miles) per hour to engage Shahed drones.
The effort follows a June 2025 Ukrainian Air Force demonstration of a fixed-wing interceptor drone launched from a mobile catapult and optimized for long-range, high-altitude missions.
