In a world first, ADS is offering Ukrainian-headquartered defence companies the opportunity to become members of the UK trade association for aerospace, defence, security and space. This offer is designed to serve as a catalyst for Ukrainian industry to engage with the UK defence industrial ecosystem, develop relationships with potential partners and deepen collaboration.

Key takeaways:

  • ADS is offering Ukrainian companies a dedicated membership for the first time
  • The offer will foster deeper collaboration between UK and Ukrainian industries in the spirit of the UK/Ukraine 100-Year Partnership
  • The launch was marked with Ukrainian companies during DSEI 2025

The membership was formally launched during Taskforce KINDRED led briefing to celebrate the 100-year partnership. In the 48 hours since launch, around 10 Ukraine-headquartered companies have already applied for the ADS membership.

ADS has developed the offering following a series of in-country engagements, part of the defence and security sectors’ work to increase industrial collaboration.

Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS, commented: “The last three years have been a sobering reminder to us all that industrial collaboration, cooperation and engagement is critical for national resilience. The experience and welcome that ADS have received by our Ukrainian counterparts is truly unparallelled, and with Russian aggression showing no signs of abating, we are proud to formally extend our membership to support our Ukrainian friends and colleagues.

“Catalysing industrial production is paramount to our collective security, and through enhanced ties to the Ukrainian businesses powering the front line, we aim to deepen engagements. Both industries have much more to learn from one another.”

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said: “We are committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s illegal invasion. Its defence industries are driving innovation at the cutting edge of the new era of warfare, and we commend ADS’ offer of membership to Ukrainian businesses. Closer engagement between the British and Ukrainian defence sectors will ensure that we are collectively stronger when facing today’s threats.”

Membership will consist of a dedicated group for Ukrainian companies to engage in business-to-business networking; engagement in ADS-led trade missions to Ukraine; access to online events; as well as the ability to engage with ADS’ wider membership.

To be eligible, prospective members must operate in the defence sector, have a group headquarters in Ukraine, and hold a letter of recommendation from an approved partner.

More information can be found at adsgroup.org.uk/Ukraine

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