A new stage of integration: Ukrainian participants gain access to European Defence Fund calls
During the Defence Industry Forum in Kyiv, an association agreement with the European Defence Fund (EDF) was signed. This milestone opens new opportunities for Ukrainian and European companies, enabling them to form joint consortia and participate in EDF-funded defence research and development projects. Importantly, all activities under EDF projects, including technology testing and trials, may now be conducted in Ukraine.
In addition, Ukraine has gained access to project funding of up to €260 million under the EDIP Industrial Reinforced Actions (IRA) scheme, supported through the Ukraine Support Instrument. These funds will be allocated to joint projects aimed at strengthening the defence industrial capabilities of both Ukraine and European Union Member States.
Expanded cooperation between Ukraine and the EU in the field of defence technologies promotes knowledge exchange, drives innovation, and enhances collective resilience to shared security challenges. A key role in this process is played by the European Union Defence Innovation Office (EUDIO) in Kyiv, which serves as a platform for cooperation between the defence industries of Ukraine and EU countries. Through its initiatives, the Office helps accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions by leveraging Ukraine’s unique expertise and technologies proven in real combat conditions.
As a result of this cooperation, Ukraine continues to deepen its integration into the European defence industrial ecosystem, while the European Union gains access to cutting-edge developments and valuable operational experience. This partnership contributes to strengthening the common security and defence capabilities of both Ukraine and Europe.