UK to supply MLRS to Ukraine

The UK will give the M270 multiple-launch rocket system (MLRS) to Ukraine to help the country defend itself against Russian aggression, the Defence Secretary has announced.

The M270 weapon system, which can strike targets up to 80km away with pinpoint accuracy, will offer a significant boost in capability for the Ukrainian forces. The UK’s decision was co-ordinated closely with the United States decision to gift the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) variant of MLRS.

The the UK will also supply M31A1 munitions at scale. Ukrainian troops will be trained on how to use the launchers in the UK.

Britain previously announced that Ukrainian personnel would be trained to use a variety of armoured vehicles which the UK donated, including Mastiff, Husky and Wolfhound.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:

"As Russia’s tactics change, so must our support to Ukraine. These highly capable multiple-launch rocket systems will enable our Ukrainian friends to better protect themselves against the brutal use of long-range artillery, which Putin’s forces have used indiscriminately to flatten cities."