First hypersonic missile batch for Ukraine - No equivalent anywhere
Photo: missiles (screenshot from video)
The United Kingdom is advancing a new Nightfall hypersonic system, intended for delivery to Ukraine and simultaneously serving as a foundation for future long-range strike programs of the British Armed Forces. The system has already undergone initial testing and has attracted significant investment, according to The Times publication.
Also read: General Staff reveals damage after strike on Oreshnik launch site
The British company Hypersonica is developing missiles capable of maneuvering at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound.
According to reports, the first tests of the navigation systems took place at the Andøya Space Center in Norway, with the systems developed in just nine months. During trials, the missile reached speeds of over 7,400 km/h (Mach 6).
The UK government confirmed that the Nightfall system will be delivered to Ukraine and "will also serve as a foundation for future long-range strike projects of the British Armed Forces." Contract signing is expected in March.
Focus on deep-strike capability
"We aim to give Europe the ability to conduct deep, precision strikes at the necessary cost and within the required timeframe, and these investments make that possible," said Philip Kert, co-founder and CEO of Hypersonica.
Deployment of the missiles is planned by the end of the decade. The UK and Germany previously announced plans to develop a system with a range exceeding 2,000 km under the Trinity House agreement.
"In Europe, it is recognized that the ability to perform deep strikes is crucial for building the necessary deterrence and defense… A new approach to developing technology for these systems is required," Kert emphasized.
Hypersonica is among 90 organizations selected to participate in a government-backed £1 billion hypersonic program. The company plans to expand production in the UK and Eastern Europe, focusing on client requirements.
Context: Russian missile use
The use of missiles by Russia immediately after production indicates limited stockpiles of these weapons. Vladyslav Vlasyuk, presidential envoy for sanctions policy, notes that to maintain the current intensity of strikes, Russia is forced to deploy missiles straight from the production line.
During the night attack on January 20, Russia reportedly used RM-48U training missiles against Ukraine for the first time. Western media estimate that such launches may serve to overload and exhaust Ukraine’s air defense system.
