The UK is attempting to build a new tactical missile for Ukraine that will have a range of over 300 miles. 

The initiative, dubbed “Project Nightfall,” aims to develop a ground-launched tactical ballistic missile with a range of 310 miles and a 450-pound warhead. If that metric is met, it will be one of the longest-range weapons the West has provided to Ukraine. 

The project will come with a substantial price tag for London and likely take years before the missiles are operational. The UK has awarded three companies $12 million to design a prototype missile. London expects to conduct the first testfire in a year. 

The UK expects each Project Nightfall missile to cost over $1 million once the munition enters production. London also expects to incorporate the missiles into its arsenal. 

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard, said, “A secure Europe needs a strong Ukraine. These new long-range British missiles will keep Ukraine in the fight and give Putin another thing to worry about.”

Moscow views the West supplying Ukraine with long-range munitions as highly provocative. Kiev has launched multiple attacks on military, civilian, and energy targets inside Russia. 

Moscow has also pummeled Ukraine with nightly waves of missile and drone attacks. Last week, Russia destroyed a Ukrainian aircraft repair facility with an Oreshnik hypersonic missile.