UK Developing Ballistic Missile: First Deliveries to Ukraine Expected by Late 2027.

New Ballistic Missiles Bound for Ukraine

According to Espreso.tv: The United Kingdom has signed preliminary contracts to develop its first ballistic missile in over five decades. Testing of this new weapon is scheduled to begin within the next 12 months, with initial deliveries to Ukraine potentially arriving by the end of 2027. This initiative is part of Britain's broader effort to leverage lessons from the war in Ukraine to accelerate the development of advanced weaponry.

The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded contracts to multiple companies to carry out this project. The missile's range has been reduced from over 600 kilometers to 500 kilometers, while its warhead weight has been cut from 300 kilograms to 200 kilograms. The cost cap for each missile is set at £800,000, which exceeds $1 million.

The Brakestop Project

Under the Brakestop project, the UK is developing low-cost, long-range cruise missiles specifically for Ukraine. These missiles are currently undergoing testing in Britain, underscoring the country's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense efforts.

“The goal of Ukraine's missile program is to accelerate the production of ballistic missiles as much as possible.”

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

This project highlights the deepening defense cooperation between the UK and Ukraine, a critical step amid the ongoing conflict. The planned deliveries of the new ballistic missile could significantly enhance Ukraine's military capabilities and bolster its defense in the challenging conditions of modern warfare.

At the same time, the reduction in range and warhead weight may reflect an effort to balance cost and weapon effectiveness, a key consideration in contemporary military technology.