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The United Kingdom has announced plans to develop a new deep-strike tactical ballistic missile designed to significantly enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russia’s ongoing invasion.
Under a new initiative known as Project Nightfall, the UK government has launched a competitive process to rapidly design and produce ground-launched ballistic missiles with a range exceeding 500 kilometres. The missiles are intended to operate in high-threat combat environments, including conditions of intense electronic warfare and electromagnetic interference.
The Nightfall missile system will be capable of being launched from a variety of vehicle platforms, firing multiple rounds in quick succession before relocating within minutes. This “shoot-and-scoot” capability is intended to allow Ukrainian forces to strike high-value Russian military targets while reducing the risk of counter-attack.
Each missile is planned to carry a 200-kilogram conventional high-explosive warhead, with a target production rate of 10 missiles per month. The UK has set a maximum unit cost of £800,000 per missile, aiming to deliver a highly capable but cost-effective long-range strike option with minimal foreign export restrictions.
The Nightfall program builds on the UK’s ongoing military support for Ukraine, particularly in long-range strike capabilities, following the delivery of thousands of deep-strike one-way attack drones.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey said recent Russian attacks highlighted the urgency of strengthening Ukraine’s defences.
“The attacks overnight on Thursday show how Putin believes he can act with impunity, striking civilian areas with advanced weapons,” he said. “Instead of seriously negotiating peace, he is escalating his illegal war.
“We were close enough to hear air raid sirens around Lviv on our journey to Kyiv. It was a sobering reminder of the daily barrage of drones and missiles being endured by Ukrainians in sub-zero conditions.
“We will not stand by. That is why we are determined to put cutting-edge weapons into the hands of Ukrainians as they defend their country.”
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard said a strong Ukraine was central to European security.
“A secure Europe needs a strong Ukraine,” he said. “These new long-range British missiles will keep Ukraine in the fight and give Vladimir Putin another thing to worry about.
“In 2026, we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine – providing equipment to sustain the fight today while working to secure peace tomorrow.”
The Nightfall project is expected to award development contracts worth £9 million each to three industry teams. Each team will be required to design, develop and deliver three prototype missiles within 12 months for test firings.
The program places a strong emphasis on rapid prototyping, incremental or “spiral” development, resilience against electronic warfare, and the ability to scale manufacturing quickly, particularly within the UK.
While the immediate focus is on supporting Ukraine, the Nightfall project is also expected to inform future long-range strike capabilities for the UK Armed Forces.
Detailed program requirements were provided to approved industry partners on 19 December 2025 following the completion of confidentiality and security arrangements. Proposals are due by 9 February 2026, with development contracts expected to be awarded in March 2026.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
