UK vows to accelerate Lyra programme for Ukraine as defence industry eyes opportunities
A Shahed-136 drone, which counter-UAS and interceptor drones are being developed to combat. (Photo: Tasnim News Agency, CC BY 4.0)
Project Nightfall and Project Octopus both fall under the Lyra programme, with UK industry working to develop and deliver additional missiles and drones to help bolster Ukraine’s warfighting capabilities against Russia.
The UK government has pledged to accelerate the implementation of the Lyra Programme – a collection of co-development projects covering drones, air defence and long-range effectors – as part of its wide-ranging updated defence pact with Ukraine.
The deepening of this defence partnership and defence industrial collaboration comes in the wake of Ukraine entering its fourth year fighting Russia.
According to the UK, the priority areas in the partnership between the UK and Ukraine aimed at bolstering defence capabilities will include “cost-effective uncrewed aerial system (UAS) interceptors and sensing, systems integration anti-cruise and the development of anti-ballistic missile capabilities”.
Project Octopus and
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![US approves $16.5 billion in ‘emergency’ sales for air defence equipment for Middle East allies]()
US approves $16.5 billion in ‘emergency’ sales for air defence equipment for Middle East allies
The United Arab Emirates has taken the lion’s share of this round, with the US supporting its F-16 fleet and signing off on possible sales for more AMRAAM AIM-120 missiles and a counter-drone system.
-
![Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers]()
Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers
With some Eastern European countries already upgrading their helicopter fleets to incorporate Western technology, the region presents potential future opportunities for defence companies.
-
![UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines]()
UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines
The first of three E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, originally ordered in 2019, is now expected to be delivered to the RAF this year after multiple “difficulties”.
-
![Forecast $21.9 billion light attack and trainer opportunities up for grabs as Leonardo lines up M-346]()
Forecast $21.9 billion light attack and trainer opportunities up for grabs as Leonardo lines up M-346
The M-346 stands as a potential contender for various countries facing impending capability gaps due to ageing trainer aircraft, while it could also be selected as a cost-effective light fighter aircraft.
