Nine European countries and Ukraine, on Monday, announced the formation of a coalition to develop âpurely defensiveâ anti-ballistic capabilities in Europe.
They cited âthe growing threatâ of ballistic missiles as reason.
âWe believe that the protection of Europe requires a global solution of integrated missile defence architecture to deter and defeat future missile threats,â said the joint declaration.
The coalition include Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
âBy bringing together our defence industrial base, our research, and our operational experience, we aim to build a shared anti-ballistic missile capacity for Europe,â it said.
âWe do this not against any people, but in defence of our own,â it added, citing the âunique experience of Ukraineâ whose air defences have faced repeated Russian ballistic missile strikes in recent weeks.
At least 25 heads of state were due to attend the Paris meeting, with some staying on for the military parade marking Franceâs national public holiday on July 14 which this year will highlight support for Ukraine.
