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Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Canadian Minister of National Defence David McGuinty discussed key areas of bilateral defense cooperation, including air defense, drone production, and long-range ammunition, Fedorov said on June 16, UATV English reports.
According to the minister, the two sides outlined further steps to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and support the country’s Defense Forces.
“One of the main priorities is air defense. Ballistic missiles remain one of the greatest challenges for Ukraine, so we discussed further support through the PURL mechanism and the possibility of purchasing PAC-3 missiles through Jumpstart,” Fedorov wrote on Telegram.
During the conversation, Fedorov thanked Canada for supplying AIM-9 missiles for Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jets, delivered with logistical support from Belgium. He noted that the missiles enhance the capabilities of Ukraine’s air force and help counter Russian aerial threats.
The ministers also focused on support for Ukraine’s domestic drone industry.
“I urged Canada to expand investments in Ukrainian technologies through the Danish model and other mechanisms. We are scaling solutions that have already proven effective on the battlefield,” Fedorov said.
The officials additionally discussed the delivery of diesel pickup trucks for Ukraine’s Defense Forces and support for the procurement of long-range artillery ammunition under the Czech-led initiative.
Fedorov noted that Ukraine and Canada are also implementing joint defense-industrial projects aimed at strengthening the capabilities of both countries.
“I am grateful to Canada for its consistent support of Ukraine and its readiness to assist in critically important areas of defense,” he said.
Earlier on June 16, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine and Canada are working on a major Drone Deal as part of expanding bilateral defense cooperation.
Meanwhile, the Council of the European Union formally approved an agreement allowing Canadian companies and Canadian-origin products to participate in procurements under the SAFE defense program.
