Ukraine urges allies to accelerate air defence deliveries ahead of winter, with drones and long-range artillery also top priorities for 2026

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

Ukraine |
Ukraine urges allies to accelerate air defence deliveries ahead of winter, with drones and long-range artillery also top priorities for 2026

Photo: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.

Ukraine has pressed its partners to speed up air defence deliveries, warning that the timing of supplies will affect its position after winter. Deputy Defence Minister Serhii Boiev put air defence, drones and long-range artillery at the top of the country’s 2026 requirements during the Operational Force Development Framework conference.

Boiev presented Ukraine’s wartime plans and current battlefield challenges to senior defence officials and military leaders, according to the Ukrainian Defence Ministry. About 100 generals from NATO and Gulf countries attended the meeting.

The deputy minister called for quicker decisions as well as faster delivery of weapons. He said the timely provision of air defence systems would show whether Ukraine came through the winter stronger or weaker.

Kyiv also wants foreign investment and joint production to expand its domestic defence industry. The ministry identified unmanned systems, ammunition and other modern weapons as areas for closer work with international partners.

The conference gave Ukraine a forum to align support with the needs of its defence forces and exchange practical experience with allies. The ministry said the value of that support depends on whether it reaches the front when it is needed.