UK tests new long-range missile system that could be delivered to Ukraine within a year

The tests were conducted in the Hebrides. The weapon is reportedly capable of hitting targets at a distance of more than 300 miles (about 500 kilometers).

The experimental missile systems are equipped with a 250-kilogram warhead and, according to the newspaper, could potentially reach Moscow.

The UK Ministry of Defence tasked companies with developing missiles capable of speeds exceeding 370 mph (about 600 km/h) at a cost of around £400,000 per unit. Production rates are expected to reach 20 units per month.

Around 27 industry bids were submitted in February last year. Six British companies were then awarded contracts worth about £5 million each to develop prototypes for testing. By December, only three suppliers remained: MBDA UK, which manufactures Storm Shadow cruise missiles, and two small and medium-sized enterprises, MGI Engineering and Rotron Aerospace.

According to The Telegraph, all systems functioned successfully during the launches in the Hebrides despite a number of minor technical issues. The newspaper noted that the problems had been anticipated and would be addressed.

The project, known as Brakestop, is now in its second phase, with companies receiving additional contracts worth around £15 million.

The UK hopes to deliver the first of the new systems to Ukraine within a year.

Further missile tests are scheduled to continue in the coming months.