The United Kingdom has launched Project Nightfall, a new defense initiative aimed at developing ground-launched tactical ballistic missiles for Ukraine to enhance Kyiv’s long-range strike capabilities against Russian military targets. The program reflects London’s continued commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s ability to conduct precision deep-strike operations in contested environments.
According to the UK Ministry of Defence, the missiles under Project Nightfall will be capable of carrying a 200-kilogram high-explosive warhead and engaging targets at ranges of more than 500 kilometers. Designed to operate under intense electronic warfare, jamming, and electromagnetic interference, the weapons are intended to remain effective even in high-threat battlespaces dominated by Russian countermeasures.
The Nightfall system will emphasize mobility and rapid deployment, with launchers able to operate from multiple vehicle platforms, fire several missiles in quick succession, and relocate within minutes. This “shoot-and-scoot” capability is intended to allow Ukrainian forces to strike high-value targets while minimizing exposure to enemy counterfire. The program also prioritizes rapid prototyping and scalable production, targeting an initial output of 10 missiles per month at a unit cost capped at £800,000 per missile.
Three industry teams will each receive £9 million development contracts to design and deliver initial missile prototypes within 12 months for test firings. Final proposals are due by February 9, with contracts expected to be awarded in March. Project Nightfall builds on the UK’s broader military assistance to Ukraine, which includes drones, long-range strike support, and joint defense industrial cooperation.
