The United Kingdom has announced a substantial £500 million ($622 million) military aid package for Ukraine, including the provision of Storm Shadow long-range precision missiles, as Western nations rally their support amid the looming threat of a Russian summer offensive.
This unprecedented aid package reflects the pressing need to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against the anticipated Russian advance on its resource-stretched positions. The Storm Shadow missiles, manufactured by European missile maker MBDA, possess an official range exceeding 155 miles, with experts suggesting they may be capable of striking even farther distances.
The missiles grant Ukraine the capability to target crucial Russian assets, such as military headquarters, bunkers, and logistical hubs, far beyond the front lines. This enhanced strike capability is expected to play a significant role in countering the Russian offensive.
In May 2023, the UK first announced its intention to supply Ukraine with Storm Shadow missiles. France followed suit, committing to send its version of the missiles, known as SCALP, to Kyiv. These missiles have played a notable role in several Ukrainian strikes that have caused significant embarrassment to Moscow.
In September 2023, Kyiv employed Storm Shadow missiles to strike a Russian warship and submarine based in the Crimean city of Sevastopol. Additionally, in mid-April 2024, Ukraine used Storm Shadow missiles to target a command hub in the Russian-controlled eastern Ukrainian city of Luhansk.
Beyond the Storm Shadow missiles, the UK aid package also includes 60 boats of various types, over 400 vehicles, and close to 4 million rounds of small arms ammunition. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized that this aid will ensure that Ukraine has the resources necessary to counter the Russian threat.
On Saturday, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a separate military aid package worth over $60 billion, demonstrating the United States’ unwavering position as Ukraine’s primary military backer. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the package into law shortly.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has highlighted the critical importance of securing long-range weaponry, including air defense systems, modern artillery, and the swift delivery of American support packages. Kyiv has already utilized the U.S.’s long-range Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) and is expected to effectively combine Storm Shadow and ATACMS to pressure Russian airbases and supply dumps further behind the front lines.
