Raven and Gravehawk systems are now in Ukraine’s arsenal as part of UK military aid
Air defense system (Photo: facebook.com/kpszsu)
The UK is bolstering Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, supplying modern short- and long-range systems to protect against Russian aerial threats, according to UK Defence Journal.
As the active phase of the war continues, Ukraine is receiving new British air defense systems designed to shield troops and critical infrastructure from air attacks.
These deliveries include both already-deployed Raven systems and prototypes of the long-range Gravehawk systems.
Raven: short-range rapid-response air defense
According to a written response from the UK Parliament on January 6, 2026, 13 Raven air defense systems have been delivered to Ukraine.
Minister for Veterans Affairs El Carns stated: "13 RAVEN air-defence systems have now been provided to Ukraine, giving Ukrainian units the ability to rapidly defend themselves against Russian aerial threats."
The Raven system is designed to counter drones, aircraft, and helicopters near the front lines, adapting the AIM-132 ASRAAM missile from the Royal Air Force for ground use.
The system provides a rapid-deployment capability, allowing Ukrainian forces to respond promptly to threats, though it has limited effectiveness against cruise missiles.
Gravehawk: protecting critical infrastructure
The UK Ministry of Defence also confirmed progress with the Gravehawk system.
"Two prototype GRAVEHAWK air-defence systems have been delivered to Ukraine so far," said Minister El Carns.
He added that from the remaining 15 systems under contract, the first batch will be delivered in the near future.
Gravehawk is designed to protect strategically important Ukrainian assets from long-range Russian strikes and will become a key component in strengthening the country’s overall defense capabilities.
Ukraine is set to receive further air defense reinforcement in response to continuous strikes on its energy and critical infrastructure. The UK is sending automated turrets and missiles to counter Russian drones as part of a £600 million winter air defense package, aimed at protecting cities and strategic assets.
The US has paused deliveries of some surface-to-air missiles and other precision munitions to Ukraine due to concerns over its own stockpile levels.
