The UK's defence industry has delivered a masterstroke in innovation, accelerating production of cutting-edge long-range strike systems for Ukraine just months after launching a high-stakes competition. Three British-designed systems have successfully undergone flight tests, showcasing the nation's industrial prowess and capacity to deliver advanced battlefield technology at unprecedented speed.
Project Brakestop, initiated by the Ministry of Defence's Taskforce Kindred in November 2024, challenged UK industry to create a low-cost, ground-launched strike weapon capable of hitting targets over 500km away. The ambitious project specified a substantial 225kg warhead, speeds exceeding 600km/h, and a target unit cost of approximately £400,000 (excluding the warhead). Companies were also required to demonstrate their ability to produce at least 20 weapons per month following a production order.
The competition began with 27 bids, narrowing down to six companies awarded £5 million contracts in February 2025. After seven months, three suppliers remained: MBDA UK, MGI Engineering, and Rotron Aerospace. Their systems were tested at the MOD Hebrides Range, a specialist trials site.
Minister for the Armed Forces Louise Sandher-Jones MP praised the UK's unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that Project Brakestop demonstrates the combined commitment and ingenuity of British industry. She highlighted how UK companies have moved from design to flight testing in less than a year, delivering a new generation of capability at remarkable speed.
The successful development of a 225kg warhead by another UK company has already undergone testing, further validating the destructive potential of these systems. The next phase of Project Brakestop is now underway, with £15 million follow-on contracts awarded to the remaining suppliers. These contracts will develop and produce 15 improved effectors each, alongside launchers and support vehicles.
Further testing is planned for the UK in the coming months, followed by additional trials overseas, including in Ukraine. This announcement comes amidst a week of significant UK commitments to Ukraine, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's pledge of £210 million of UK Export Finance support for Ukraine's nuclear power plants and new sanctions targeting Russia.