The UK-Ukraine TechExchange has published new research, Restructure: A UK-Ukraine Model for Defence Innovation, which examines how lessons from Ukraine’s wartime innovation could reshape the UK’s approach to defence reform.
From discussions with defence leaders from across both nations, including representatives from TechUK, Expeditions, Kvertus, Delian, L7, the Defence Security and Resilience Bank, it is concluded that merely observing Ukrainian innovation from a distance will be insufficient to prepare the UK for the realities of modern, high-intensity warfare. Not only will it leave the UK without direct access to the first-hand experience of modern security threats, such as the pressing need for anti-drone technologies, as evidenced by recent incursions in Eastern Europe. This approach also puts Ukraine at risk, as its world-leading intellectual property could be exploited without providing the long-term economic benefits essential for its post-war recovery. This distant approach leaves both nations vulnerable.
The paper proposes a deeper, long-term partnership between the UK and Ukrainian defence ecosystems. The research finds that while direct procurement from Ukraine may remain challenging, the future lies in UK-Ukraine defence innovation pathways. This includes joint ventures between British and Ukrainian companies, as well as supporting Ukrainian firms in establishing their own industrial bases within the UK.
‘Restructure’ expands on discussions from the SDR regarding the future of the UK defence sector. It also seeks to answer a question that many Ukrainian companies have begun to ask themselves after three and a half years of fighting: what will become of Ukraine’s wartime innovators after the war is over?
Experts suggest that the private sector can also play a crucial role. Increased investment in Ukrainian technologies now, before export bans are lifted, can help de-risk future commercial pathways. The UK government can facilitate this by sending clearer signals that encourage private capital to flow more freely into this strategically vital sector.
With these findings, the UK can lead the way in creating a modern defence ecosystem that is agile, resilient, and ready for the challenges of tomorrow. READ HERE DOWNLOAD IN PDF
