ASD and Ukraine sign defence industry cooperation agreement

The primary objective of the MoU is to foster collaboration between Ukrainian defence companies and ASD members. It also aims to facilitate the involvement of Ukrainian companies in industrial consortia under relevant EU programmes such as the European Defence Fund and Horizon Europe.

As an immediate outcome of the agreement, ASD has launched an online B2B platform called ‘ASD Connect’. The platform is designed to enable matchmaking between Ukrainian and other European defence companies, promoting cooperation and integration within the European defence sector.

The agreement is set for a period of three years and includes a possibility for renewal. This long-term commitment reflects the strategic aim of building a stronger and more interconnected European defence industry.

Herman Smetanin, Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine, stated: “We see strong interest from European companies and associations in the Ukrainian defence industry – and this interest is mutual. We aim to develop partnerships that benefit both sides. After all, we can strengthen our partners with our experience, expertise, and our ability to adapt quickly to the needs of the front and implement innovations at lightning speed. I am grateful to ASD for its active role in supporting the Ukrainian defence industry.”

Minister Smetanin also acknowledged ASD’s involvement in organising the Second EU-Ukraine Defence Industry Forum, emphasising the importance of this cooperation. He noted that the MoU serves as a “roadmap for action,” highlighting the readiness of Ukraine to move forward alongside ASD and European defence companies.

Jan Pie, ASD Secretary General, commented on the significance of the agreement in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He stated: “Against the background of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine and its population, the European defence industry plays a key role to back up the declared commitments by EU and NATO members to support Ukraine as long as it takes in its fight for territorial integrity and self-determination.”

Pie also affirmed ASD’s unwavering solidarity with Ukraine, stating that the agreement supports Ukraine’s efforts to develop its defence industry and integrate it into the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base. He concluded, “I am convinced that our cooperation will be mutually beneficial and contribute to the security of Ukraine and Europe as a whole.”