The UK is set to develop a new generation of deep-strike ballistic missiles designed to significantly boost Ukraine’s ability to hit Russian military targets at long range, as London steps up its support against Vladimir Putin’s war.
Under a new initiative known as Project Nightfall, the government has launched a competition to rapidly develop ground-launched tactical ballistic missiles capable of operating in high-threat environments dominated by electronic warfare.
The missiles are expected to carry a 200kg conventional warhead and strike targets at distances of more than 500 kilometres, giving Ukraine what ministers describe as a vital long-range punch to counter Russian aggression.
Rapid, mobile and hard to counter
According to the Ministry of Defence, Nightfall missiles will be designed for speed, flexibility and survivability. They will be able to launch from a range of vehicles, fire multiple missiles in quick succession, and withdraw within minutes, allowing Ukrainian forces to strike key targets before Russian defences can respond.
The system is intended to be both highly precise and cost-effective, with a target production rate of 10 missiles per month and a maximum cost of £800,000 per missile. Crucially, the project aims to minimise foreign export controls, allowing faster delivery to Ukraine.
Part of a wider UK commitment
The Nightfall programme builds on the UK’s ongoing support for Ukraine’s long-range capabilities, including the supply of thousands of deep-strike one-way attack drones.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said the urgency of the project was underscored by Russia’s continued use of advanced weapons against civilian areas.
“The attacks overnight on Thursday just go to show how Putin thinks he can act with impunity, targeting civilian areas with advanced weaponry,” he said.
“Instead of seriously negotiating a peace, he’s seriously escalating his illegal war.”
Healey described witnessing the impact of the conflict first-hand during recent travel through Ukraine.
“We were close enough to hear the air raid sirens around Lviv on our journey to Kyiv. It was a stark reminder of the barrage of drones and missiles hitting Ukrainians in sub-zero conditions,” he said.
“We won’t stand for this, which is why we are determined to put leading-edge weapons into the hands of Ukrainians as they fight back.”
‘Another thing for Putin to worry about’
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said the new missiles would strengthen European security as well as Ukraine’s battlefield position.
“A secure Europe needs a strong Ukraine,” he said.
“These new long-range British missiles will keep Ukraine in the fight and give Putin another thing to worry about.”
He added that UK support would continue beyond the immediate conflict.
“In 2026, we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine, providing equipment to keep them in the fight today, while working to secure the peace tomorrow.”
Industry competition and future UK use
Under Project Nightfall, three industry teams are expected to be awarded £9 million development contracts, with each team tasked with designing, developing and delivering their first three missiles within 12 months for test firings.
The project prioritises rapid prototyping, resilience to electronic warfare, spiral development, and the ability to scale up manufacturing quickly, particularly within the UK defence industry.
While the immediate focus is on supporting Ukraine, the programme will also help shape the future long-range strike capabilities of the UK Armed Forces.
Detailed requirements were shared with industry partners on 19 December 2025, with the deadline for development proposals set for 9 February 2026. Contracts are expected to be awarded in March 2026.
