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KYIV. Dec 30 (Interfax-Ukraine) – The UK has delivered more than 1,000 VALLON metal detectors and 100 bomb de-arming kits to Ukraine, the UK Ministry of Defense said.
"The deliveries are the latest in a continuous supply of support that the UK has been providing Ukraine throughout 2022 and which will continue in 2023," the Defense Ministry said in a statement on the UK government website on Friday.
The Ministry of Defense said the UK recently provided Ukraine with a package of air defense systems, including more than 1,000 anti-aircraft missile systems and 125 anti-aircraft guns, to protect Ukraine from Russian attacks on its cities and infrastructure.
"The UK was the first country in Europe to send military aid to Ukraine, sending thousands of NLAW anti-tank missiles early in 2022. Since then, the RAF has flown over 240 flights to move thousands of tonnes of military aid from the UK and international partners, ranging from sophisticated missiles to clothing to support troops through the harsh winter. The UK continues to liaise with the government of Ukraine to ensure that future supplies meet the tactical demands of the conflict as it evolves," the ministry said.
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine said the equipment was transferred to help clear mines in the reclaimed territories and will be able to neutralize Russian bombs, ammunition and unexploded improvised explosive devices.
VALLON can help troops clear minefields and clear safe routes along roads and trails. It can also help ensure civilian infrastructure and homes are cleared of explosive ordnance, allowing people to safely return to their homes.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry said this equipment for combating explosive ordnance is one of the latest in a wide range of equipment that the UK has transferred to Ukraine.
In 2022, the UK provided GBP 2.3 billion worth of military aid to Ukraine and promised to maintain the same level of funding next year.
