Britain has announced a new defense aid package for Ukraine, worth £162 million, which includes 650 Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM). According to the Ministry of Defense, these missiles, developed by Thales, have a range of over six kilometers (3.73 miles) and can be launched from land, sea, or air platforms.
This announcement follows a recent escalation in attacks, with Russia launching 200 missiles and drones at Ukraine on Monday. The strikes resulted in the deaths of seven civilians and caused extensive damage to the country’s energy infrastructure. Kyiv labeled the assault as the war's "most massive" missile attack to date.
Ukraine has persistently called for faster deliveries of air defense systems from Western nations to help fend off Russia's continued missile and drone attacks.
The missile package, revealed by Defence Secretary John Healey during a visit to a U.S. airbase in Germany, is scheduled for delivery by the end of this year. Healey emphasized that the additional missiles would significantly strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has consistently advocated for more weapons to repel Russian forces. During a speech to international allies in Germany, Zelensky reiterated the urgent need for more F-16 fighter jets and emphasized the current shortage of missiles for his country’s forces.
He also called for long-range missile capabilities to target Russian territory. Zelensky made these remarks during his visit to Ramstein Air Base in Germany and is expected to meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Frankfurt before traveling to Italy.
The British Ministry of Defence described the Thales LMM as a highly versatile weapon, effective against armored personnel carriers, warships, and drones. The supersonic missile travels at Mach 1.5 (around 1,150 mph) and has a range of six kilometers.
This defense package underscores the UK’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. Deliveries of the new missile systems are expected to begin later this year, as Britain stands firm in its promise of long-term support.
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