Boeing and Antonov have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore opportunities for collaboration on defense projects. The document reflects Boeing’s commitment to working with the Ukrainian industry, particularly concerning support for unmanned aerial systems in Ukraine.
“We are excited to continue our collaboration with Antonov to support Ukraine’s development and economic growth,” said Ted Colbert, President and CEO of Boeing Defence, Space & Security. “This agreement highlights our ongoing efforts to seek new opportunities for working with the Ukrainian industry, as demonstrated by our earlier signing of the Cooperation Agreement with Ukraine’s defense industry this year.”
The Memorandum outlines the areas where the manufacturers could potentially collaborate. Among the proposals outlined in the agreement are training, logistical support, and repair services for tactical unmanned aerial systems used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including the ScanEagle.
Additionally, according to the signed document, the companies will explore the possibilities of providing engineering support from Boeing to the Antonov enterprise.
“A strong, innovative, and efficient defense industry is crucial for sustainable economic development and national security,” said Yevhen Havrylov, CEO of Antonov. “We are extremely pleased to collaborate with Boeing.”
He believes that this agreement will open up a new level of opportunities for the company to implement the most advanced and effective solutions. Additionally, it provides the potential for future joint projects with Boeing in the aerospace and defense industries.
Antonov is a Ukrainian state-owned aerospace enterprise, comprising a complex of laboratories, a design bureau, a testing complex, as well as experimental and serial production plants. It offers a complete cycle of aircraft creation, from development to manufacturing and after-sales support. Globally, the company is most commonly associated with transport and passenger aircraft, as well as special-purpose planes, though it has developed over a hundred types of aircraft and their modifications. Less than ten years ago, the company became part of the state conglomerate Ukroboronprom.
Source: boeing
