UK to accelerate air defense missile deliveries to Ukraine to counter jet-powered drones

The government said it would fast-track £10 million ($13 million) worth of missiles from a £45 million air defense package to meet Ukraine's urgent needs ahead of winter.

British officials said the LMMs have proved effective against jet-powered drones used in Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv.

Unlike conventional propeller-driven Shahed drones, jet-powered variants can fly faster and at higher altitudes, making them more difficult to detect and intercept.

The UK has previously committed £1.6 billion to supply Ukraine with more than 5,000 LMMs over four years.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the UK would continue supporting Ukraine and had instructed ministers to prepare additional sanctions, military assistance and financial support packages in the coming weeks.

“Our rock-solid support to Ukraine is vital for keeping us safe here in the UK and ensuring those on the frontlines have the equipment they need to push back Russia,” Burnham said.

The British government also reaffirmed plans to implement a ban on maritime services supporting Russian liquefied natural gas exports, which would restrict Russia's access to British shipping and insurance services.

The announcements coincided with Zelenskyy's visit to London for talks with Burnham on military assistance and increasing economic pressure on Russia.