Ukraine will be able to procure weapons, ammunition and military equipment through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). The new partnership also expands opportunities for Ukrainian defence companies to participate in the Agency’s tenders and access international markets. This is significant as Ukraine is the first and only NATO partner country to have a dedicated partnership serving as a single gateway to NSPA.

These mechanisms are provided for in the Agreement between the Government of Ukraine and the NATO Support and Procurement Organisation (NSPO) on the Security Cooperation Support Partnership (SCSP). The partnership is designed to ensure stable, long-term support for Ukraine by consolidating its requirements with those of capability coalitions and other NATO structures. Ukraine’s requests can be addressed through existing NSPA contracts or new contracts, including through the use of emergency procurement procedures.

Consolidating orders from Ukraine and other countries will strengthen negotiating positions and enable more favourable pricing. To accelerate deliveries, the Agency will also be able to adapt its standard procedures to Ukraine’s needs. Procurement may be financed through Ukraine’s state budget, contributions from international partners or joint funding.

Participation in the SCSP could give Ukraine access to the capabilities of the Agency’s 45 partnerships, covering the procurement of various weapons systems, their maintenance and support throughout their life cycles.

A separate strand of cooperation focuses on involving Ukrainian manufacturers in NSPA procurement. Ukrainian defence companies are already registering in the supplier database, submitting proposals and participating in tenders on an equal footing with foreign companies. Joining the SCSP will help expand their participation in NSPA procurement, including to meet Ukraine’s urgent defence needs.

The partnership is also designed to adapt to future requirements for rebuilding defence infrastructure, restoring the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and replenishing stocks of materiel. It is expected to play a substantial role in strengthening Ukraine’s defence industrial base.

NSPA Director of Support to Operations Jacqueline Borsboom emphasised that the partnership would support the integration and growth of Ukrainian industry while enabling Allies and partners to benefit from Ukraine’s battle-tested innovation and operational experience.