The European Union has sent Ukraine €3.9 billion to fund the procurement of drones, the European Commission said.

The payment forms part of the bloc’s €90 billion loan package approved earlier this year. The Commission said it follows its first €3.2 billion instalment to Ukraine on June 25 to support the country’s government financing.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the funds are intended to support advanced drone technology and strengthen Ukraine’s defence, with additional releases expected in the coming periods.