Britain to step up aid with new ballistic missiles for Ukraine in 2026
The initiative, known as Project Nightfall, involves a competition to quickly design and produce ground-launched systems capable of carrying a 200 kilogram warhead over distances exceeding 500 kilometers. According to the Defense Ministry, “Nightfall missiles will be capable of being launched from a range of vehicles, firing multiple missiles in quick succession and withdrawing within minutes – allowing Ukrainian forces to hit key military targets before Russian forces can respond.”
Officials said the program is intended not only to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses but also to stimulate Britain’s defense industry. Each missile is expected to cost up to £800,000 ($1 million), offering what the ministry described as a cost effective long range strike option with limited export restrictions.
Defense Secretary John Healey criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for “seriously escalating” the war rather than pursuing peace, noting that he heard air raid sirens during his recent trip to Lviv. He added, “… We are determined to put leading edge weapons into the hands of Ukrainians as they fight back.”
Luke Pollard, minister for defense readiness and industry, emphasized that Europe’s security depends on Ukraine’s strength, saying the new missiles “will keep Ukraine in the fight.” He explained that three industry teams are expected to receive £9 million ($12 million) contracts each to design, build, and deliver three missiles within a year for testing.
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