Daniel Wolfram
The United Kingdom has just taken its next step in helping Ukraine against Russia. And it is a big one.
There was a time when the UK cosied up to Russian oligarchs to try and help their economy.
Those days seem to be over now.
Now, weapons manufactured by the former British Empire are actively helping Ukraine turn the tide in the war against Russia.
Deep strike capabilities
Ukrainian military forces have begun deploying British-manufactured drones to strike high-value targets deep within Russian borders. The operations mark a noticeable escalation in military support by the UK.
According to The Times, these unmanned drones from Britain have targeted essential Russian infrastructure to try and drain Russia’s war effort over the past six months. Attacks reached deep inside enemy territory as far as Volgograd and other areas near Moscow.
British involvement was previously constrained by fears of escalation, but not anymore. A defence source told the newspaper: “Russia has been very effective at keeping the West nervous about hitting it too hard. These attacks mean the UK is effectively signalling to Russia and our allies that we’re not [nervous] any more.”
Drone help from the UK
Among the equipment given to Ukraine is the Nyan drone, built in South West England by BAE Systems. The aircraft can travel more than 150 miles to strike strategic sites like Belgorod.
The manufacturer confirmed its active involvement in supplying equipment. “We deliver a range of capabilities into the UK MoD as part of the UK’s support to the defence of Ukraine.”
The company added: “The Nyan uncrewed air system provides a rapidly developed platform proven in meeting emerging threats within highly contested environments.”
Shifting battlefield dynamics
Long-range air strikes have become essential for Ukraine as conventional missile supplies run low.
These long-range drones have completely changed the tides of this war. Ukraine is now able to not only defend itself, but also attack deep inside heavily populated Russian cities.
The British government recently unlocked hundreds of millions in financial loans to help the Ukrainian government buy advanced equipment. This funding secures a steady pipeline of long-range missiles, air defences, and advanced drones.
