Defence Cooperation with Ukraine strengthened as EU Defence Innovation Office opens in Kyiv

As a significant step towards enhancing defence industrial collaboration between the European Union and Ukraine, the EU Defence Innovation Office commenced operations in Kyiv in early September 2024. In the context of her 8^th visit to Kyiv, Commission President von der Leyen, in presence of Director-General Timo Pesonen, formally inaugurated the EU Defence Innovation Office (EUDIO) in Ukraine on the 20^th of September 2024.

This initiative marks an important milestone in advancing the European Defence Industrial Strategy, adopted in March 2024. Hosted by the European Union Delegation to Ukraine and manned by EC Directorate General for Defence Industry and Space and the European External Action Service, the new office aims to foster cross-border cooperation between the Ukrainian Defence Technological and Industrial Base (DTIB) and its European counterpart, further solidifying EU-Ukraine defence ties.

The EU Defence Innovation Office will serve as a key coordination and information hub, facilitating collaboration between Ukrainian defence stakeholders and their EU counterparts. It will act as a central contact point for Ukrainian partners, identifying local needs and capacities in defence innovation while promoting joint initiatives. The Office will also work to connect EU start-ups and innovators with Ukraine’s defence industry and armed forces, bolstering innovation efforts across borders.

Additionally, the Office will provide Ukrainian defence innovation stakeholders with essential information regarding access to EU programmes and potential funding opportunities. By supporting cooperation between Ukrainian and European defence industries, the Office contributes to Ukraine’s long-term security and post-conflict reconstruction. Moreover, the initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine’s integration into the EU defence equipment market.

The establishment of the EU Defence Innovation Office in Kyiv was first announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 24 February 2024.

This effort is a joint venture involving the European External Action Service and the European Commission’s Directorate General for Defence Industry and Space. The creation of the office aligns with the objectives of the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS), which was adopted on 5 March 2024. A key focus of EDIS is to support the Ukrainian DTIB, ensuring technological advancements reach the frontlines while fostering greater collaboration between Ukrainian and European defence industries.

The EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s security and sovereignty is further underscored by the Joint Security Commitments signed on 27 June 2024. This initiative reflects the EU’s dedication to assisting Ukraine in its path towards EU membership and ensuring robust defence cooperation.

The European Defence Innovation Office stands as a testament to the EU's unwavering support for Ukraine and its commitment to strengthening the defence capabilities of both partners.