UK to share classified SCALP missile blueprints with Ukraine, paving way for domestic production

On August 24, the UK government announced it would share classified technical information on British-made components of SCALP cruise missiles with Ukraine, potentially aiding Kyiv in expanding domestic production of the weapons, the UK government said. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to formally announce the decision during his visit to Kyiv on Ukraine's Independence Day, marking his first overseas trip since assuming office.

This move follows the UK's 2023 decision to supply Ukraine with long-range strike weapons for defensive purposes. The disclosure will facilitate French-Ukrainian assembly of the missiles in Ukraine, and access to blueprints may lead to local production lines in both countries. British Defense Minister Luke Pollard described the action as a transfer of military blueprints to strengthen Ukraine's defensive capabilities.

SCALP, a French version of the British Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missile, weighs around 1,300 kilograms, measures 5.1 meters in length, and has a range of up to 250 kilometers. The missile is designed to strike stationary targets and can operate in various conditions. Ukraine has employed SCALP and Storm Shadow missiles against Russian military targets in occupied Ukrainian territories.

The transfer of technical data follows months of negotiations between Kyiv and Paris over licenses for Ukraine to manufacture SCALP missiles independently. While progress has been made, challenges remain due to intellectual property rights and bureaucratic hurdles. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently urged his allies to grant licenses for domestic production of Western weapons, including U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems.

Despite ongoing efforts, Ukraine has not yet received authorization to manufacture Patriots domestically. The demand for air defense and long-range weapons has surged globally, prompting British officials to emphasize continued support for Ukraine's defense needs. G7 leaders have also indicated readiness to consider expanding military-production licenses to Ukraine.