Defence Minister Evgeniy Khmara and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatyi discussed further defence cooperation and stronger air defences with Lockheed Martin, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence reported.

The Ukrainian officials met with a company delegation led by Orlando Sanchez Jr., President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.

According to Evgeniy Khmara, Lockheed Martin’s products are already helping Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression.

These include HIMARS rocket systems, F-16 fighter jets and PAC-3 missiles for Patriot air defence systems.

The talks focused on expanding cooperation and ensuring steady supplies of the weapons Ukraine’s Defence Forces need.

Support for F-16 fighter jets

The discussion also addressed the role of F-16s in defending Ukrainian airspace. These aircraft are currently among the key assets used to counter Russian jet-powered drones.

“F-16s are part of Ukraine’s air force. Ukraine is committed to a long-term partnership with Lockheed Martin. It is important to increase weapons deliveries and do everything possible to keep as many F-16s as possible operational and flying in Ukrainian skies,” Evgeniy Khmara stressed.

Ukraine is interested in expanding F-16 maintenance capabilities.

The parties discussed broadening the geographical availability of these capabilities, including by establishing maintenance operations locally.

Strengthening protection against ballistic threats

Another key topic was PAC-3 interceptor missiles for Patriot systems.

The Ukrainian side stressed the need to increase deliveries to strengthen protection against Russian ballistic missiles.

Long-term cooperation

Ukraine looks forward to a mutually beneficial, long-term partnership with Lockheed Martin.

Ukraine’s Defence Forces have gained unique experience using weapons in combat. Ukraine is ready to share these insights to help improve defence solutions jointly with its partners, drawing on the challenges of modern warfare.