On Sunday, March 2, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense announced that the United Kingdom will finance the delivery of 5,000 interceptor missiles and launchers through a loan from the UK Export Finance (UKEF) agency.
This initiative is part of a broader air defense enhancement project running through 2030, implemented in cooperation with Ukrainian defense contractors, the UK government, and Thales.
According to the ministry, the missiles in question are LMM (Lightweight Multirole Missiles), which will be supplied alongside RapidRanger launch systems. Notably, the project extends beyond direct deliveries—it also aims to localize production, transfer technology, and support Ukraine’s defense industry. However, specific details on these aspects remain undisclosed.
Ukraine’s Defense Forces Already Operate LMM Missiles, with More on the Way
It is crucial to highlight that Ukraine’s Defense Forces are already equipped with LMM missiles produced by Thales. In the fall of 2023, the UK pledged 650 of these missiles, with the first batch expected to arrive before the end of the year.
LMM missiles are primarily designed to counter russia’s long-range attack drones. According to Thales’ official specifications, the missile weighs 13 kg, has a range of over 6 km, and reaches speeds of Mach 1.5.
The LMM can be launched from Martlet MANPADS or Stormer short-range air defense systems, both of which are already in service with Ukraine’s military. Additionally, the UK will further enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities by supplying RapidRanger launchers from Thales.
RapidRanger: A Versatile Air Defense System
The RapidRanger is a combat module equipped with four launchers, capable of firing multiple missile types, including LMM and StarStreak. It can be mounted on wheeled and tracked vehicles and features day and thermal imaging cameras, target tracking systems, and a 360-degree surveillance sensor—allowing autonomous operation.
The system weighs less than 500 kg and has a target detection range exceeding 15 km, making it a highly mobile and effective addition to Ukraine’s air defense network.