The government is allowing UK defence company MBDA to declassify information on its components for the Scalp missile.
The long-range missile weighs 1,300kg and is 16.7ft (5.10m) in length. It is capable of hitting targets around 150 miles into Russia – not as far as Ukraine’s deep strike drone capability but it is a significant step in showing the willingness of international partners to share weapons technology.
The maker describes them as designed to hit pre-planned, stationary targets. It can be used day and night in all weather, and has advanced navigation systems.
MBDA adds that it is in service with the Royal Air Force, the French Air Force, Italian Air Force and has been used in Iraq, Syria and Libya.
Ukraine hopes it can also be given more Patriot interceptor missiles, with Zelensky again asking for more of the weapon, which are used to combat Russia’s ballistic missiles.
On Sunday, he said they have requested 360 of the missiles, but are “working with countries on additional options”.
Ukraine has been relying on American supplies of the Patriots, but its stockpiles are running low due to the war in Iran, leaving Ukraine vulnerable to Russian attacks.
While the Scalp missile does not intercept enemy attacks like the Patriots, Defence Minister Luke Pollard told BBC Breakfast they were sharing its blueprints so Ukraine could “defend against this illegal invasion that’s now killed so many people”.
“It’s not just the front lines, it’s shopping centres, it’s housing that’s being targeted by Russia in their illegal war and that’s why we have said and we will continue to make sure our actions follow it that we will support Ukraine for as long as it takes,” he added.
Pollard said Ukraine is in need of a variety of weapons, which is why the UK is supplying other air defence assets to take down Russian cruise missiles, and counter-drone measures.
