UK to develop new missile for Ukraine

The UK is to develop new tactical ballistic missiles for Ukraine.

The UK has launched a competition under Project Nightfall to rapidly develop ground-launched ballistic missiles with a range of more than 500 kilometres and designed to operate in high-threat battlefields with heavy electromagnetic interference.

The missiles will be capable of being launched from a range of vehicles, firing multiple missiles in quick succession and withdrawing within minutes.

The project aims for three industry teams to each be awarded a £9 million development contract to design, develop and deliver their first three missiles within 12 months for test firings.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: "The attacks overnight on Thursday just go to show how Putin thinks he can act with impunity, targeting civilian areas with advanced weaponry.

"Instead of seriously negotiating a peace, he’s seriously escalating his illegal war.

"We were close enough to hear the air raid sirens around Lviv on our journey to Kyiv, it was a serious moment and a stark reminder of the barrage of drones and missiles hitting Ukrainians in sub-zero conditions.

"We won’t stand for this, which is why we are determined to put leading edge weapons into the hands of Ukrainians as they fight back."

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP said: "A secure Europe needs a strong Ukraine. These new long-range British missiles will keep Ukraine in the fight and give Putin another thing to worry about.

"In 2026, we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine. Providing equipment to keep them in the fight today, whilst working to secure the peace tomorrow."