Ukraine's New Enhanced Partnership Role in the Joint Expeditionary Force
In 2025, Ukraine was granted Enhanced Partnership status within the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), marking a significant step toward deeper cooperation in defense technologies. This partnership highlights Ukraine’s focus on countering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and safeguarding critical infrastructure by leveraging its frontline experience and innovative technologies. Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara emphasized the country’s commitment to this collaboration, stating:
“Ukraine is ready to build a mutually beneficial partnership with you. This is essential for us, for the security of our region, and for the entire continent. Our shared future depends on this alliance.”
Background and Member Nations of the JEF
Established in 2015 through the leadership of the United Kingdom, the Joint Expeditionary Force is a coalition consisting of the following countries:
- United Kingdom
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Iceland
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Finland
- Sweden
Ukraine joined this alliance following an initiative by President Volodymyr Zelensky. According to Minister Khmara, Ukraine’s operational expertise aligns directly with the JEF’s mission, especially in areas like UAV defense, countering hybrid threats in the Baltic and North Atlantic regions, protecting underwater infrastructure, and confronting Russia’s shadow naval activities.
Ukraine has developed cost-effective, large-scale drone interceptor systems, drone detection technologies, and integrated real-time airspace monitoring that consolidates data from multiple sources. The Minister noted:
“We have witnessed Russia’s use of drones for reconnaissance, sabotage, and attacks on infrastructure. We have already created solutions proven effective in active combat.”
Beyond defense measures, Ukraine is offering Drone Deal agreements to export drone technologies, alongside its Train with Ukraine and Build with Ukraine programs, which promote joint drone production and anti-drone systems development.
Capitalizing on JEF’s geographic reach and technological capabilities, Ukraine aims to transform its combat experience into tangible defense solutions. This partnership underscores the critical importance of collaboration between Ukraine and JEF amid evolving security challenges.
Achieving Enhanced Partnership status within the JEF represents a vital milestone for Ukraine. It not only strengthens the country’s defensive posture but also deepens international security cooperation. Given the ongoing regional instability, Ukraine’s active involvement in the JEF enhances coordinated responses among partners and helps mitigate threats facing European nations. Collaborative efforts in advancing counter-UAV technologies and protecting essential infrastructure will be key to maintaining stability and security across the continent.
As Ukraine strengthens its defense capabilities through the newly established partnership with the JEF, it is also exploring collaborative opportunities with other nations. Recently, Ukraine and Slovenia have initiated a defense collaboration that focuses on advancing drone technology, showcasing the country's proactive approach to enhancing its military alliances across Europe.