The UK has launched Project Nightfall, a program to develop new ground-launched tactical ballistic missiles for Ukraine aimed at enhancing long-range strike capabilities against Russian forces.

The missiles are designed to carry a 200-kilogram (440-pound) high-explosive warhead and strike targets at ranges exceeding 500 kilometers (310 miles), even in high-threat environments with intense electronic jamming and electromagnetic interference.

Nightfall will be mobile and highly flexible, able to launch from multiple vehicle types, fire several missiles in rapid succession, and redeploy within minutes, allowing Ukrainian forces to strike key targets before Russian units can respond, the UK Ministry of Defence said.

The program targets rapid prototyping and scalable production, with an initial goal of 10 systems per month and a maximum unit price of 800,000 pounds ($1.07 million) per missile.

The initiative extends ongoing allied aid to Ukraine, such as deep-strike drones, and will contribute to defining the armed forces’ future long-range strike capability needs.

Three industry teams will each be awarded a 9-million-pound ($12.1 million) development contract to design, develop, and deliver the first three missiles within 12 months for initial test firing.

Detailed requirements were shared with select industry partners last month, and development proposals are due by February 9.

Contracts are expected to be awarded in March.

London’s Support for Kyiv

The UK is one of Ukraine’s most significant military supporters, having pledged billions of pounds in assistance since the start of the war in 2022.

London has committed to provide 3 billion pounds ($4 billion) in annual support for Kyiv “for as long as it takes,” in addition to financial instruments and defense cooperation initiatives.

Beyond financial and military aid, the two countries have begun cooperating on joint defense production and technology development, including projects focused on drone manufacturing.