Up to three contracts are expected to be awarded.

The UK will develop a new tactical ballistic missile for Ukraine to help expand the country’s long-range strike capabilities under a new project called Nightfall, the UK Government announced on 11 January.

The project was first signalled in August when the government published a market engagement notice to industry, before officially launching the competition in December. This latest announcement, however, identifies that the intended recipient for the ground-launched ballistic missile is Ukraine.

Interested parties are encouraged to submit their proposals by 9 February, with contracts expected to be awarded in March. Up to three development contracts could be awarded, valued at GBP9 million each, to design, develop and deliver three prototype missiles within 12 months for test firings, the government said. 

According to the requirements, the system must be capable of delivering two effectors from a single ground vehicle. Each effector must carry a 200kg high explosive payload, incorporate basic manoeuvrability, operate in heavy electromagnetic interference, and be capable of striking its target within 10 minutes of launch.

Although Nightfall is primarily aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s strike capabilities, the government said the programme will also help shape the “future UK Armed Forces’ long-range strike projects”.

By sending the prototypes to Ukraine, the UK is adopting an intelligent approach to development – stress test the capability in a real environment, before deciding whether to order the capability en masse for its forces.