UK authorises MBDA to share SCALP data for Ukraine production

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The decision will allow defence company MBDA to share classified information on UK-made components used in SCALP missiles. The missile is the French version of the British Storm Shadow, and both systems incorporate technology developed by France and the United Kingdom.

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The announcement is due to be made during Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s visit to Kyiv, scheduled for today. The trip coincides with the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence and, according to the statement released by the British Government, will be his first official overseas visit since taking office.

The authorisation is intended to support the establishment of missile assembly lines in Ukraine. In the British Prime Minister’s words: “I am proud of the contribution our country has made to Ukraine, and I want the Ukrainian people to hear directly from me that our support will not waver. After all, Ukraine’s security is our security.” France and Ukraine will therefore be able to move forward with the required work alongside MBDA, while London grants access to technical information that had previously remained classified.

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UK, France and Ukraine expand missile production cooperation

The measure also broadens military cooperation between the three countries in weapons production. It additionally complements the UK’s Project Brakestop, which is designed to rapidly manufacture lower-cost long-range strike weapons for Ukraine.

Storm Shadow and SCALP: key weapons for Ukraine

The United Kingdom was the first country to provide Ukraine with long-range strike missiles for defensive purposes, in 2023. Since then, Storm Shadow missiles have been used by the Ukrainian Air Force in operations against military targets, including targets located on Russian territory.

In November 2025, London also supplied Ukraine with a further batch of Storm Shadow missiles. The British Government did not disclose the number transferred at the time, although sources cited by Bloomberg said the delivery was intended to ensure the missiles remained available throughout the winter months.

Local SCALP and Storm Shadow assembly in Ukraine

Domestic production could ease some of the constraints linked to relying on external supplies of this type of weaponry. At the same time, it would enable Ukraine to expand its industrial capacity to build long-range systems and maintain operations throughout a prolonged conflict.

During his Kyiv visit, Burnham will take part in Independence Day events and co-chair a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing. The British Government says it will continue supporting Ukrainian security through military, economic and diplomatic assistance, under the 100-year partnership between the two countries.

Images for illustrative purposes only.