The Canadian government has committed additional funds for air defense equipment to support Ukraine against Russia’s invasion.
Worth 33 million Canadian dollars ($24.4 million), the fund will be utilized in a UK-led program seeking “high priority” air defense capabilities for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The cooperation was established in June 2023 and backed by the US, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
The initiative’s planned articles include “hundreds” of short and medium-range air defense missiles and related systems.
Canada’s latest military aid was first announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Kyiv in June.
Operation Unifier
Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair revealed the air defense donation at the Lydd Military Training Camp in Kent, England, where Operation Unifier is being held.
The Canadian Armed Forces established Unifier to prepare Ukrainian recruits for combat against Russian forces.
Approximately 170 Canadian warfighters are in the UK to support the effort.
Courses under Unifier include weapons handling, fieldcraft, battlefield first aid, and the Law of Armed Conflict.
“During my visit to Lydd Military Training Camp, I witnessed first-hand how Canadian Armed Forces members are providing Ukrainian recruits with the skills that they need to defend their country’s sovereignty,” Blair stated.
“Together, Canada and the United Kingdom are standing with Ukraine, as it fights to defend itself against Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion.”
“Canada commends the courage and strength of Ukrainians, and we will continue to support them with the comprehensive military aid that they need to fight and win.”
Operation Interflex
The Kent training also serves as grounds for the UK’s own project, Operation Interflex.
Since its launch, Inteflex has trained over 17,000 Ukrainian recruits. Alongside UK soldiers, instructors in the field include experts from Lithuania and other parts of the EU.