A cutting-edge British-built missile system, developed in just 18 months, is now in the hands of Ukrainian forces, offering a much-needed boost to their air defence capabilities. Known as Gravehawk, the system is an affordable yet deadly solution designed to counter Russian aircraft, drones, and missiles, a crucial addition as Ukraine continues to defend its skies.
A Game-Changer for Ukraine’s Air Defence
Developed at a cost of just £6 million, Gravehawk is an example of rapid British innovation. The system has been created by a small, secretive team within the Ministry of Defence (MOD) called Taskforce Kindred, which specialises in supplying Ukraine with advanced UK-made weaponry.
Unlike traditional air defence systems, Gravehawk is housed inside an ordinary ISO shipping container, making it highly mobile. It can be loaded onto a lorry, transported quickly, and deployed within minutes. Once in position, the roof of the container slides back to reveal the launch system, built from two weapons rails taken from Soviet-designed fighter jets such as the Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker.
Repurposing Soviet-Era Missiles for Maximum Impact
What makes Gravehawk so effective is its ability to fire repurposed Soviet-era Vympel R-73 missiles, known in NATO as the AA-11 Archer. Originally designed for air-to-air combat, these missiles travel at speeds of Mach 2.5 (over 1,900 mph) and have a range of 20 miles.
Ukraine possesses large stockpiles of these missiles, an inheritance from its Soviet past, but until now, they had limited options for deploying them. British engineers have adapted them for ground-based launch, turning outdated munitions into a cost-effective and lethal air defence system.
Cutting-Edge Targeting Technology
Rather than relying on radar, Gravehawk uses a passive infrared (IR) tracking system, which makes it harder to detect and jam. A camera on top of the container locates a target by picking up its heat signature, sending the image to a portable command module, no bigger than a large Peli case, where an operator can lock on and fire.
The system has already proved its worth against large drones like the Iranian-made Shahed, as well as Russian missiles and aircraft.
A Reluctant Start, Now an Essential Weapon
Initially, Ukraine’s military was sceptical about Gravehawk. Their priority was securing more air-to-air missiles and F-16 fighter jets. However, after seeing the system in action, they are now fully on board, and are reportedly requesting many more units.
Gravehawk in Action
So far, two Gravehawk systems have been delivered and successfully deployed on the frontlines. A further 15 units will be delivered by the end of the financial year, with Denmark covering half the cost of the £1 million price tag per system.
Ukraine has already demonstrated how effective the R-73 missile can be in unconventional ways. In December 2024, Ukrainian forces mounted one onto a marine drone and shot down a Russian helicopter over the Black Sea, a stark reminder of their adaptability and ingenuity in combat.
A Sign of the UK’s Long-Term Commitment
Speaking from NATO headquarters in Brussels, Defence Secretary John Healey hailed the system as proof of Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine. As Russia continues to pose a threat, Britain’s defence strategy remains clear, arming Ukraine with innovative, effective weaponry to secure victory on the battlefield.
