The government of the United Kingdom has officially announced an aid package for Ukraine, which will consist of extremely necessary long-range strike drones in the form of kamikaze drones with a flight range of up to 200 km and anti-aircraft missiles.
Moreover, this summer, the United Kingdom will begin the initial stage of training Ukrainian pilots in basic preparation. London has adapted the program used by British pilots to provide Ukrainians with piloting skills that they will be able to apply to other types of aircraft.
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According to British government, hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles and kamikaze drones will be delivered to Ukraine within the coming months.
The types of armaments are not disclosed and the transfer of hundreds of anti-aircraft missiles allows for a wide range of interpretations. It could refer to the delivery of ammunition for Western systems already transferred to Ukraine, such as the AIM-120 for NASAMS, as well as missiles for short-range air defense systems like Stormer or portable anti-aircraft missile systems. It is also possible that London has acquired missiles for Soviet-era air defense systems from third countries. Alternatively, it could refer to Western missiles adapted for Soviet-era systems.
Regarding the kamikaze drones, the range limitation of 200 km strongly suggests the use of new unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The specific type is also undisclosed, as there are various possibilities. One option is the 3D-printed drone developed by QinetiQ. Another interesting possibility is the Fire Shadow UAV.
The announcement of the commencement of training for Ukrainian pilots is indeed the main surprise. It refers to basic preparation, an adapted program aimed at acquiring skills in operating Western aircraft.
“This training goes hand in hand with UK efforts to work with other countries on providing F-16 jets – Ukraine’s fighter jets of choice,” reads the statement of the British government.
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