Global defense company Thales has secured a $2 billion contract from the U.K. Ministry of Defence to manufacture over 5,000 lightweight multirole missiles for Ukraine, Breaking Defense reported on Monday. London announced the procurement on Sunday as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer proposed a coalition in a meeting with 18 European leaders to renew support to Kyiv, with continuing weapons supply as one of the added efforts.
Missile Production in Belfast
The missile procurement will be manufactured at Thales’ U.K. unit in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The unit is already tasked with producing 650 lightweight multirole missiles for Ukraine under a $226 million contract Defence Equipment & Support awarded in July.
In his official statement, Starmer declared his determination to find the key to end “Russia’s illegal war” and ensure lasting peace in Ukraine.
“By doubling down on our support, working closely with key partners and ensuring Ukraine has a strong voice at the table, I believe we can achieve a strong, lasting deal that delivers a permanent peace in Ukraine,” the premier said.
Sustaining Kyiv Support
Aside from weapons aid to support Kyiv’s war efforts, Starmer proposed coalition support to ramp up Ukraine’s defense capabilities once a peace deal is negotiated with Russia. He also stressed that peace talks need to be tied to Ukraine’s sovereignty, with Kyiv involved in the negotiations, Breaking Defense reported.
Starmer’s announcement comes as US President Donald Trump announced a pause on military aid to Ukraine.