Breaking News
Canada Prioritizes Ammunition and Drones in New Military Aid Package for Ukraine.
On January 9, 2025, during the 25th Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting at Ramstein Air Base, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Bill Blair, announced a new military aid package worth $440 million for Ukraine. This announcement underscores Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting Kyiv in the face of the ongoing Russian invasion while highlighting the crucial role of international partnerships in addressing Ukraine’s increasing military needs.
Drones are a key strategic asset in this conflict, serving beyond surveillance to enable precise strikes while reducing risks to troops (Picture source: Teledyne)
Ammunition remains a key priority for Ukraine. In response, Canada confirmed a contribution of $200 million to an initiative led by Czechia to acquire and deliver large-caliber ammunition. This contribution builds on the $53 million announced last year for the same initiative, which has already delivered approximately 11,500 large-caliber rounds to Ukraine. Additionally, $50 million will be allocated to procure ammunition of various calibers from Canadian industry, further enhancing the capabilities of Ukraine’s armed forces.
The issue of ammunition for Ukraine raises significant strategic concerns within the context of the current conflict. The high demand for large-caliber rounds reflects the intensity of the fighting and Kyiv’s need to sustain its ability to respond to Russian aggression. Beyond logistical challenges, this issue highlights industrial and diplomatic dimensions. On one hand, European and Western defense industries must scale up production to meet the growing demand without depleting national stockpiles. On the other hand, the provision of ammunition serves as a strong political signal of allied solidarity with Ukraine and their determination to counter Russian expansionism. Furthermore, it poses questions about the sustainability of international support, as long-term assistance requires close coordination among contributing nations and significant mobilization of financial and material resources.
Another key aspect of this aid package involves military drones, which have become indispensable in modern conflicts. Minister Blair announced a $100 million commitment under the Danish Model to support the production of drones by Ukraine’s defense industry. These systems, both innovative and versatile, play a critical role in reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision strikes. This contribution adds to the $3 million that Canada allocated to the initiative in April 2024, as well as the donation of 900 SkyRanger drones manufactured by Teledyne FLIR in Waterloo, Ontario. To date, 560 of these drones have been delivered to Ukraine, significantly strengthening its operational capabilities on the ground.
Additionally, several targeted donations were announced to address Ukraine’s immediate needs. Canada will provide $30 million in winter equipment, including sleeping bags, winter boots, and thermal clothing, a significant portion of which was delivered in December 2024. Moreover, $64 million in high-resolution drone cameras were shipped to Ukraine in November and December 2024, enhancing the reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities of its armed forces and offering a tactical advantage in ongoing operations.
These measures are part of the $500 million in additional military assistance announced during the 2024 NATO Summit and the $1.6 billion allocated in the federal budget of the same year. With this new commitment, Canada’s total military aid to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 now reaches $4.5 billion, reflecting Ottawa’s prominent role in international efforts to support Kyiv.
Minister Blair also provided an update on previous deliveries. In December 2024, a shipment of 1,300 CRV-7 rocket warheads was sent to Ukraine, following the delivery of over 2,000 CRV-7 rocket motors in September 2024. The first Armoured Combat Support Vehicles were delivered in the fall of 2024, accompanied by the necessary training. Canada plans to deliver an additional forty vehicles between May and December 2025, further contributing to the modernization of Ukraine’s ground capabilities.
Drones, in particular, stand out as a strategic asset in this conflict. Their role extends beyond surveillance, enabling precise strikes while reducing risks to ground troops. By supporting their production through Ukraine’s defense industry, Canada addresses a pressing need while strengthening Kyiv’s resilience and autonomy in technological and military domains.
This announcement reflects Canada’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. As the conflict enters a phase where innovation and rapid responses are critical, Canadian support remains a cornerstone of international efforts to help Kyiv navigate the persistent challenges of this war.