UK seeks to develop ballistic missiles for Ukraine capable of reaching Moscow – Reuters

The United Kingdom plans to develop a new ballistic missile for Ukraine, known as Nightfall, with a range of over 500 kilometres.

Source: Reuters; The Sun, citing UK Defence Secretary John Healey

Details: According to Reuters, the UK government said on 11 January that it will develop a new long-range ballistic missile for Ukraine to support the country's military efforts in the war against Russia.

Under the project, codenamed Nightfall, the UK government has announced a competition for the rapid development of ground-launched ballistic missiles capable of carrying a 200 kg (440 lb) warhead over a distance of more than 500 km (310 miles).

Meanwhile, The Sun reported that Healey had confirmed the planned project for Ukraine.

The Nightfall missiles are expected to be capable of being launched quickly from vehicles. Their range would allow them to reach targets as far away as Moscow if fired from Ukrainian territory.

UK companies are being offered a £9 million contract to design, develop and deliver the first three missiles for test launches.

Background:

• In September 2025, the Ukrainian military news outlet Militarnyi reported, citing Healey, that the UK was considering supplying Ukraine with Nightfall operational-tactical ballistic missiles once their development is completed.
• The launch system is required to carry at least two missiles and ensure the safe launch of the full payload under high-threat tactical conditions within 15 minutes of arriving at a firing position The crew should be able to leave the area within five minutes after launch.
• At the time, it was noted that if a contract were signed, production would need to reach at least 10 missiles per month, with the potential for further scaling. The UK Ministry of Defence planned to identify technical solutions within 9 to 12 months and prepare at least five fully operational prototypes for testing.

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