UK to help Ukraine develop its own Nightfall ballistic missile
The UK plans to help Ukraine develop its own ballistic missile called Nightfall. This is reported by the Daily Mail citing sources in the defence sector.
According to the publication, the advanced missile will have a warhead weighing about 200 kg and a range of up to 482 km. The project is seen as an element of strengthening Ukraine's long-range capabilities amid the war with Russia.
Technical parameters of the project
According to preliminary information:
The name of the rocket: Nightfall
Type: ballistic missile
A combat unit: up to 200 kg
Range: up to 482 km
Purpose: defeat of military objectives in the enemy's deep rear
The UK's involvement may include engineering support, technological advice and assistance with the integration of individual systems.
Official government agencies have not yet commented publicly on the details of the project.
Possible strategic implications
It is capable of running its own ballistic programme:
significantly expand the long-range capabilities of the Armed Forces;
strengthen deterrence of Russia at the operational and strategic level;
reduce Ukraine's dependence on imports of certain types of long-range weapons;
increase pressure on the enemy's military logistics and rear bases.
Analysts note that the emergence of such a missile could change the balance of power in the region and affect the parties' future negotiating positions.
Context.
Ukraine is actively developing its own defence industry, in particular in the field of drones, cruise missiles and advanced ballistic missiles. Western partners are increasingly shifting from direct arms supplies to technological cooperation and localisation of production.
The UK remains one of Ukraine's key military and political partners in the war against Russia and regularly expands its defence support.
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