The United Kingdom has announced plans to transfer a newly developed air defense system to Ukraine. This system is designed to adapt surplus air-to-air missiles for ground deployment, aiming to bolster the defense of Ukrainian cities. The announcement was made during Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to Kyiv, marking his first trip to the Ukrainian capital since assuming leadership six months ago.
In a significant move, Starmer revealed a surprise plan for a 100-year treaty with Ukraine, which was signed with President Volodymyr Zelensky. The details of this treaty are expected to be discussed in the British Parliament in the upcoming weeks. Alongside this, the UK government declared a new financial and military support package for Ukraine, pledging £4.5 billion in 2025. This funding will facilitate the procurement of hundreds of air defense systems, drones, and essential equipment to support Ukrainian forces engaged in frontline operations.
A key component of this support is the introduction of an innovative air defense system called ‘Gravehawk,’ developed by a British company specifically for Ukraine. According to Sir Keir, the UK will deliver this mobile air defense capability within the year. Official details about the Gravehawk system remain limited, but a government press release described its rapid development to address Ukrainian battlefield needs. Notably, the system is UK-designed and jointly funded with Denmark.
Gravehawk is not a new missile but rather an innovative method of deploying existing missiles. It enables the retrofitting of air-to-air missiles for ground-based defense, utilizing missiles already in the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ arsenal. Two prototypes were tested in Ukraine last year, and 15 production units are scheduled for delivery this year.
The British Armed Forces’ broadcaster, BFBS, noted that little information is available about the weapons system, and no official images have been released. However, some defense publications have speculated that the system might be similar to a “FrankenSAM” seen on Ukrainian battlefields as early as 2023. Reports from Ukraine’s Defence Express website in 2023 described a short-range air defense system using a truck chassis from the UK’s Supacat company, equipped with British-made ASRAAM (AIM-132) air-to-air missiles. Meanwhile, RBC Ukraine suggested that Russian-designed R-73 air-to-air missiles, which Ukraine has been experimenting with retrofitting, could also be candidates for this system.
Both the ASRAAM and R-73 missiles offer the advantage of being relatively self-contained and infrared-guided, allowing them to be aimed and fired at targets without the need for complex ground systems. However, the range of these missiles is expected to be short, as air-to-air missiles are typically launched at high altitudes and speeds. Ground-launching these missiles will require significant fuel usage to reach adequate altitudes, potentially limiting their range to just a few miles.
In addition to the Gravehawk system, several other initiatives have been announced to support Ukraine. These include a revival of British artillery barrel production for the first time in decades, intending to supply Ukraine with these crucial components. Moreover, the UK and Ukraine are developing an officer cadet exchange program, allowing Ukrainian cadets to train at the prestigious Sandhurst officer school in England. In return, British officer candidates will have the opportunity to travel to Ukraine and gain firsthand experience in military operations against Russian forces.
The announcement of these initiatives underscores the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts. The introduction of the Gravehawk system and other military aid demonstrates the UK’s strategic efforts to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The establishment of an officer cadet exchange program also signifies a deeper military collaboration between the two nations, fostering mutual learning and cooperation.
The rapid development and deployment of the Gravehawk system highlight the urgency in addressing Ukraine’s defense needs. By adapting existing missile technologies, the UK aims to provide a cost-effective solution that can be quickly integrated into Ukraine’s defense strategy. The collaborative funding between the UK and Denmark further emphasizes the international support for Ukraine’s security efforts.
While the specifics of the 100-year treaty between the UK and Ukraine remain to be debated, its signing indicates a long-term commitment to bilateral relations. The treaty, along with the announced military aid and initiatives, reflects the UK’s strategic focus on supporting Ukraine in the face of ongoing challenges.
The introduction of the Gravehawk system and the revival of artillery barrel production represent significant steps in strengthening Ukraine’s military capabilities. These efforts, combined with the officer cadet exchange program, aim to enhance both immediate and long-term defense strategies for Ukraine. The UK’s involvement highlights its role as a key ally in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
Overall, the UK’s announcement of new military support initiatives for Ukraine marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing collaboration between the two nations. The delivery of the Gravehawk system and other aid reflects the urgency and importance of bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities. As the details of the 100-year treaty are discussed in parliament, the focus remains on ensuring a robust and enduring partnership between the UK and Ukraine.
3 years late after the Brits goaded Ukraine to …not settle for peace!