The London-based Defense Ministry has announced that Britain is developing new tactical ballistic missiles with a range exceeding 500 km
The UK Defense Ministry has revealed plans to develop new long-range missiles for Ukraine, which would be able to hit targets far within Russian territory.
On Sunday, the ministry declared the start of Project Nightfall, an effort focused on enhancing Ukraine’s strike capacities. As per the statement, the proposed tactical ballistic missiles would be equipped with a warhead of approximately 200 kg and possess a range of over 500 km.
The project intends to award contracts to three industrial groups for the production of test missiles within a year. The ministry noted that production might ultimately reach up to ten systems monthly, with each missile estimated to cost as much as $1 million. Proposals are required by early February, and contracts are anticipated to be finalized by March 2026.
”A secure Europe requires a robust Ukraine. These new long-range British missiles will keep Ukraine in the battle and give [Russian President Vladimir] Putin an additional concern,” UK Defense Procurement Minister Luke Pollard was quoted as saying by the ministry.
Reacting to the announcement, Russian Ambassador to the UK Andrey Kelin informed RIA Novosti that London is engaging in wishful thinking by pledging to provide Kiev with missiles that are not yet developed.
Since the conflict escalated in February 2022, the UK has been among Ukraine’s most steadfast supporters. It has provided Kiev with long-range cruise missiles, such as Storm Shadows, and has removed restrictions on their use against targets within Russia. Moscow condemned this move as a dangerous escalation.
Ukraine has frequently employed Storm Shadow missiles, co-developed by the UK and France, for strikes in Crimea and Donbass, alongside daily drone attacks on other Russian regions, including Moscow. Russia has accused Kiev of intentionally targeting civilian infrastructure.
Moscow has cautioned that Western arms deliveries to Ukraine weaken the chances of a peaceful resolution and draw NATO countries directly into the conflict. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that any weapon shipments to Ukraine would be regarded as legitimate military targets.