UK Tests Long-Range Missiles for Ukraine Under Project Brakestop

The United Kingdom successfully tested new long-range strike weapons in the Hebrides as part of Project Brakestop. Launched in late 2024, the initiative tasked the Ministry of Defence to develop low-cost alternatives to Storm Shadow missiles that remain free from U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to ensure operational independence.

The final three contractors—MBDA UK, MGI Engineering, and Rotron Aerospace—designed munitions capable of striking targets over 500 kilometers away with warheads weighing 225 to 250 kilograms. Each unit is estimated to cost approximately £400,000 and can reach speeds exceeding 600 kilometers per hour.

These tests coincide with a £752 million military aid package for Ukraine, featuring 150,000 drones and air-defense missiles. Further trials are planned in both the UK and Ukraine before the weapons are deployed to Kyiv within a year. The UK will also soon assume command of the Multinational Force for Ukraine Headquarters.