UK Develops Gravehawk Air Defense System for Ukraine
The United Kingdom has unveiled the “Gravehawk” air defense system as part of a comprehensive military aid package to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against ongoing Russian aggression. The UK has delivered 500,000 rounds of artillery ammunition to Ukraine, worth over £1 billion, as part of its ongoing military support. In addition, a new £150 million aid package has been announced, providing drones, tanks, and air defense systems to strengthen Ukraine’s defense. This is part of the UK’s £3 billion annual pledge to Ukraine. This latest support aims to equip Ukrainian soldiers with the necessary firepower to protect their country and maintain resistance on the battlefield. The UK remains committed to aiding Ukraine with advanced weaponry and critical military resources. The UK will send over 50 armored and protective vehicles, including modernized T-72 tanks, to Ukraine by the end of spring.
In 2024, the UK’s total support has reached a record £4.5 billion, reinforcing Ukraine’s defense and ensuring peace through strength. This commitment also highlights the new 100-year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine, securing long-term support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
The Gravehawk system was designed to counter drones, cruise missiles, and aircraft, providing advanced air defense for Ukraine. It was developed from scratch in just 18 months and it cost £6 million (over $7 million) to create. The Gravehawk system is armed with two modified R-73 infrared-guided missiles, repurposed for ground-based air defense. Mounted on a military truck chassis, it provides high mobility and rapid deployment, making it a powerful tool for frontline defense against aerial threats.
The system repurposes Soviet-era R-73 (AA-11 Archer) infrared-guided missiles, originally intended for aerial launch, enabling them to be fired from ground platforms. Several British defense companies were involved in the development, although their identities have not been disclosed. It is equipped with an optical system that employs passive infrared radiation to detect targets, Gravehawk minimizes vulnerability to radar detection. A crew of five operates the system, which can be swiftly deployed to critical areas.
UK Defense Minister John Healey, speaking from NATO headquarters in Brussels, highlighted Gravehawk as proof of the UK’s long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia. This cutting-edge system strengthens Ukraine’s defenses with fast, effective, and affordable military technology.