The ADS Group, the United Kingdom’s trade association for aerospace, defense, security, and space, has formally opened its membership to Ukrainian defense companies for the first time.
Calibre Defence reports that the announcement was made during DSEI 2025 in London and coincided with a Taskforce KINDRED-led briefing marking the “UK/Ukraine 100-Year Partnership.”
Within 48 hours of the offer’s launch, approximately ten Ukrainian companies had applied.
Kevin Craven, CEO of the ADS Group, described the move as a necessary step in strengthening industrial ties amid ongoing Russian aggression.
“The last three years have been a sobering reminder to us all that industrial collaboration, cooperation and engagement is critical for national resilience,” Craven said. “The experience and welcome that ADS have received by our Ukrainian counterparts is truly unparalleled, and with Russian aggression showing no signs of abating, we are proud to formally extend our membership to support our Ukrainian friends and colleagues.”
He continued: “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.”
Luke Pollard MP, UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, voiced support for the initiative. “We are committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s illegal invasion,” he said. “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.”
The new membership framework offers Ukrainian firms access to a dedicated business-to-business networking group, participation in ADS-led trade missions to Ukraine, online events, and engagement with ADS’ wider membership. Eligible applicants must operate in the defense sector, be headquartered in Ukraine, and hold a letter of recommendation from an approved partner.
Several Ukrainian companies are already positioning themselves within the UK defense landscape. Ukrspecsystems recently announced plans for a £200 million investment in the UK. Meanwhile, Skyperion has partnered with Prevail Partners to bring its drone capabilities to the market. Other firms, such as Kara Dag, are also exploring entry points through collaboration and joint ventures.
ADS membership is seen as a pathway to broader integration within the UK defense ecosystem, offering Ukrainian manufacturers direct access to potential partners, procurement routes, and shared development initiatives.