Burnham and Zelensky cement defence ties with Stone Cloak IP transfer and drone deal talks

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in London for his first meeting with a foreign leader since assuming office on 20 July 2026. The visit serves to reinforce London’s commitment to Kyiv ahead of Zelensky’s scheduled trip to Washington on Tuesday, where he is expected to hold talks with US President Donald Trump and attend the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham. During the meeting, Burnham announced the transfer of intellectual property rights for "Stone Cloak," a tablet-sized electronic jamming device designed to disrupt Russian air defence systems tracking drones.

The Stone Cloak technology, which has already been gifted to Kyiv in thousands of units, stems from rapid innovation under a 100-year partnership pact signed between the two nations in January 2025. Downing Street confirmed that the device will be integrated into the next generation of UK deep-strike capabilities. Burnham described the transfer as vital for protecting security in both countries, noting that the technology is battle-tested and homegrown.

In a further deepening of defence cooperation, Zelensky told UK broadcaster Sky News that he wishes to "open a new page" in bilateral relations by signing a "drone deal." This proposal involves establishing a manufacturing facility for drones in the UK, with Zelensky stating that Ukraine is ready to share its operational experience to ensure the agreement is robust. The leaders also visited a naval base to observe maritime security and counter-mine exercises involving approximately 200 Ukrainian military personnel currently training in Britain for future Black Sea missions.

Despite these advancements, Zelensky highlighted a critical shortage of air defence missiles to counter Russian ballistic missiles, noting that Moscow is increasing production of such weapons. He emphasized the urgent need for additional systems to protect Ukraine’s air-defence infrastructure, which has come under strain from recent deadly attacks. The UK’s total support for Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began more than four years ago has reached £25 billion ($33 billion), including £16 billion in direct military assistance.

The diplomatic engagement occurs as Washington’s attention is partially diverted by the conflict in the Middle East, which has cost the US $37.5 billion and raised concerns over weapons stockpiles. Zelensky acknowledged the challenge of managing international support while the US focuses on the region, though he noted recent positive developments, including Trump’s permission for Ukraine to build US-designed Patriot air defence systems. The visit underscores the UK’s resolve to maintain an "unbreakable bond" with Kyiv as negotiations on ending the war remain stalled.