UK and Ukraine Forge Strategic AI Partnership with Joint Declaration of Intent

In a pivotal moment for European security, the President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom convened with a shared commitment to reshape the landscape of modern warfare. This meeting underscored the necessity for both nations to lead in the responsible and effective use of Defence Artificial Intelligence (AI), acknowledging the significant influence of AI, autonomous systems, and network-enabled capabilities.

Both leaders affirmed the importance of maintaining a technological advantage for democracies, viewing it as essential for deterrence. They recognised that Ukraine’s defence capabilities, resilience, and unique operational experience are vital not only for its own sovereignty but also for the stability and security of Europe’s eastern flank, NATO, and the broader Euro-Atlantic community.

Referring to existing bilateral agreements, including the 100-Year Partnership Agreement and the Agreement on Security Co-operation, the leaders expressed their determination to work collaboratively. Their goal is to merge Ukraine’s battlefield experience with the United Kingdom’s technological and industrial expertise, thereby establishing AI-driven armed forces that both nations and their allies can rely upon.

Vision for Future Defence Capabilities

The leaders articulated a strategic vision centred on developing next-generation, AI-enabled armed forces. They plan to leverage their engineering, industrial, and academic strengths, alongside the expertise of defence organisations, to expedite the creation and deployment of military capabilities that enhance Ukraine’s battlefield effectiveness. This initiative aims to foster the growth of AI-powered armed forces characterised by rapid innovation, autonomous systems, and network advantages.

Structured Framework for Cooperation

The partnership will be grounded in a structured cooperation model comprising three interconnected pillars. Firstly, there will be Government-to-Government collaboration focused on co-developed models, secure data pathways, and joint assurance efforts. Secondly, industry collaboration will occur through government arrangements to develop, test, and deploy AI-enabled capabilities aligned with specific operational challenges. Finally, the partnership will engage academia and research institutions to explore themes such as autonomy, AI assurance, cyber security, and the use of synthetic data. This comprehensive approach aims to establish a framework for developing and implementing AI-enabled military capabilities that other nations may aspire to emulate.

Guiding Principles of the Partnership

The principles guiding this cooperation will honour the sovereignty of each party’s assets and data. The partnership will be founded on trusted safeguards regarding data, intellectual property, and export controls, all in compliance with national laws. It will aim to balance agility with appropriate governance while delivering mutual strategic advantages and ensuring interoperability within NATO. By mutual consent, the partnership’s outcomes may extend to include trusted allies and partners.

Leadership and Implementation Strategy

The stewardship of this partnership will be maintained at the highest political level, with senior defence officials designated to oversee the alignment with agreed objectives. To facilitate effective implementation, the partnership will adopt a pilot-first approach, prioritising areas of practical cooperation that are already in motion. Further arrangements are expected to be established in the coming months, ensuring that the partnership translates into concrete actions that respond to the demands of shared security.

This Declaration embodies the mutual political intentions of the leaders and does not impose any legally binding commitments.