Canada has announced new military and energy support for Ukraine following meetings between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Calgary.

The measures include a $350-million package of air-defence interceptors intended to help Ukraine protect civilians, infrastructure and its electricity system from Russian missile and drone attacks.

The equipment will be acquired through a United States program that allows partner countries to purchase American defence equipment for Ukraine.

Ukraine has been seeking additional systems capable of stopping ballistic missiles as Russia increases aerial attacks on cities and energy infrastructure.

Carney announced the package Sept. 10 following bilateral talks with Zelenskyy. The Ukrainian president’s visit focused on air defence, drone production and preparations for the approaching winter.

Canada also plans to provide about $435 million in loan guarantees through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

The guarantees are intended to strengthen Ukraine’s energy security, including support for natural-gas purchases and the country’s Energy Security Fund.

Drone production formed another part of the Calgary discussions.

Carney said Canada plans to develop the capacity to produce millions of drones during the next two years. One-third of the expanded production would be directed to Ukraine.

The prime minister also said recently announced contracts would increase the Canadian Armed Forces’ drone fleet tenfold. Canada’s military currently has about 2,000 drones, according to information provided during the Calgary announcement.

The longer-term production plan would support both Canadian defence requirements and Ukraine’s need for unmanned aircraft.

Ukraine has developed extensive experience designing and operating drones for surveillance, defence and attacks on military targets. Expanded co-operation could give Canada access to technology and battlefield knowledge while providing Ukraine with additional equipment and production financing.

Canada has committed more than $25.5 billion in military, financial, humanitarian and other assistance to Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. That total includes about $8.5 billion in military support.

The new commitments remain subject to procurement, production and delivery arrangements. The federal government has not provided a complete timeline for when the interceptors, drones or energy assistance will become available.