Ukraine aims to develop a domestic counterpart to the British Storm Shadow cruise missile, with a completion target set for 2025. Commanded by Colonel Valeriy Boryovyk of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ drone unit, this initiative follows the acquisition of Storm Shadow missiles, which possess a range of approximately 250 kilometers and a maximum range of 560 kilometers. The Storm Shadow incorporates a 450-kilogram BROACH warhead, designed with an initial penetrator charge, enabling it to breach fortified structures and underground facilities. Its targeting system combines inertial navigation with GPS correction, terrain mapping, and a terminal phase infrared seeker. Currently, Ukrainian forces launch these missiles from Soviet-era Su-24 bombers. However, recent reports indicate that the effectiveness of the Storm Shadow may diminish due to the U.S. withholding critical intelligence, as the missiles require direct targeting data immediately before launch. The development of a Ukrainian analogue is poised to enhance self-reliance in strategic missile capabilities, significantly impacting Ukraine’s defense posture.
