Project Nightfall to test fire deep-strike capabilities for Ukraine by 2027
Ukraine has already been supplied with ATACMSs which have a range of 300km, half the range of this newly planned missile. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
The UK has announced plans to develop a long-range ballistic missile that will help bolster Ukraine’s firepower against Russia. Named Project Nightfall, the ballistic missile will be designed with a range of up to 500km, with a 200kg explosive warhead, according to the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD). At present, Ukraine is fielding the US-supplied Army Tactical Missiles System (ATACMS), which has a range of up to 300km.
With an expectation for chosen industry partners to produce 10 systems a month, the UK will award three £9 million (US$12 million) development contracts to design, develop and deliver the first three
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
NSPA outlines next steps for NATO’s Next-Generation Rotorcraft Capability effort
The NATO agency gave further updates on the next stages of its rotorcraft programme and timelines for the next three years, with the initiative aimed at replacing ageing medium-lift helicopters in various NATO countries.
-
UK’s New Medium Helicopter deal finalisation on horizon, alludes Leonardo CEO
A potential announcement within days could end speculation around the UK Ministry of Defence’s procurement direction for the NMH programme.
-
UK Royal Navy notes hybrid air wing progress with eyes on Peregrine drone development
The Royal Navy’s Maritime Aviation Transformation (MATX) initiative aims to modernise aviation capabilities to use uncrewed systems where possible, supporting its goal of a hybrid air wing by 2040.
-
Middle East UAV market underscored by $17bn in unsigned deals
While several UAV programmes remain unawarded in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is forecast to be the biggest spender with its potential MQ-9B and Gambit deals overshadowing others in the region.
-
February Drone Digest: US manufacturers face the Gauntlet and find success abroad
The US launched the Gauntlet test in February as part of its accelerated attack drone procurement effort while also exploring various naval capabilities that could lead to procurements down the line. Shield AI’s V-Bat, meanwhile, has been stirring up global interest.
-
Leonardo UK “optimistic” on further Proteus funding, confirms international interest
The Proteus demonstrator is being pitched as a key platform showcasing the UK’s capabilities to build autonomous systems, with Leonardo in ongoing discussions about the future of the programme with the Royal Navy and UK Ministry of Defence.