Volodymyr Zelensky’s European tour is paying off. After announcements by Paris and Berlin to equip it with new weapons, it is London’s turn to do so before a meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
According to a statement from 10 Downing Street, the UK will provide further military support “in the coming months as Ukraine prepares to step up its resistance to the ongoing Russian invasion.” The armament will include, in particular, “hundreds” of anti-aircraft missiles and attack drones to Ukraine.
“A New Attack Skill”
It is not yet known what types of drones will be sent, but the missiles should be Storm Shadow weapons with a range of several hundred kilometers. This cruise missile is equipped with an advanced navigation system to ensure accuracy. Developed by MBDA, this weapon is the result of a collaboration between the UK and France, where it is called the “Scalp”.
A few days ago, an Alliance official explained to CNN that these missiles will provide Ukraine with “a new attack capability” to “help it in its counteroffensive against Russian troops.” Last Thursday, British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace confirmed the delivery of Storm Shadow.
In terms of military equipment alone, London, Ukraine’s first-time supporter, is Kiev’s second-biggest supplier, with 4.6 billion pounds (5.3 billion euros) of aid provided or promised by 2022-2023. The UK delivered, in particular, anti-tank missiles, artillery guns, air defense systems, armored fighting vehicles. It also supplied British Challenger tanks to Ukraine and trained Ukrainian soldiers to operate them.
Source: BFM TV
