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The United Kingdom is developing a new generation of low-cost long-range weapons for Ukraine that would operate independently of U.S. components and data, Bloomberg reported, citing British defense officials.
According to the report, the Brakestop project, launched in late 2024, has been fast-tracked to provide Kyiv with additional strike capabilities, UATV English reports.
Defense companies MBDA, MGI Engineering and Rotron Aerospace are developing three weapon systems that are expected to undergo testing in the UK and Ukraine in the coming months. Officials said the new weapons could reach the battlefield within a year.
While less accurate and destructive than MBDA’s Storm Shadow cruise missiles, the new systems are expected to cost roughly half as much as the Anglo-French weapon.
A key requirement set by the British government was that the systems contain no American-made components and rely on no U.S. data, ensuring operational independence amid concerns over excessive dependence on the U.S. defense industry.
The new weapons are expected to carry warheads weighing at least 225 kilograms and strike targets at ranges exceeding 500 kilometers.
Each missile, excluding the warhead, is projected to cost around £400,000 ($529,000).
According to Bloomberg’s sources, all three companies competing under the Brakestop program have stated they would be able to manufacture at least 40 weapons per month within three to four months of receiving an order.
If they do not secure a British contract, the companies plan to offer the systems directly to Ukraine or to other European countries.
The UK has steadily expanded its military support for Ukraine. Earlier this week, London announced plans to deliver 150,000 drones worth nearly $1 billion to Ukraine by the end of the year.
