UK restricts Ukraine’s use of Storm Shadow missiles

London maintains a ban on the use of Storm Shadow missiles in attacks inside Russia, limiting their use to defence.

Official data confirms the restrictions on using Storm Shadow.

From 29 July 2024, the UK continues to restrict the use of Storm Shadow cruise missiles supplied to Ukraine for attacks inside Russia. The UK’s current position was confirmed in Parliament by the Under Secretary of State for Defence, Luke Bullard. Despite the provision of military assistance to Ukraine, it is clear that the equipment is intended exclusively for defence against Russian aggression.

In a parliamentary intervention, Pollard stressed the need to maintain this policy, noting that any change could increase tensions with Russia. The statement clarifies the British position following speculation arising from alleged comments by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which suggested that strikes on Russian territory could be authorized. The Ministry of Defense clarified that the permitted strikes are limited to occupied territories, including Crimea.

The British position is clear: although the missiles continue to be delivered, their use is limited to defensive, non-offensive purposes on Russian territory. This is in line with the policy of avoiding further escalation of the conflict.

Technical characteristics of the Storm Shadow missile and its operational capabilities

The Storm Shadow missile is a long-range cruise missile developed by MBDA. It is approximately 5.1 metres long, has a wingspan of 3 metres, and a diameter of about 0.48 metres. It weighs about 1,300 kilograms. Equipped with a turbojet engine, the missile can reach subsonic speeds, allowing it to travel long distances with a low radar cross section.

For navigation, the missile uses a multi-mode system that combines inertial navigation, GPS and terrain reference navigation. This system ensures high accuracy even in environments where GPS is not available. Terminal guidance is performed by an image infrared (IIR) finder supplemented by a digital scene matching area correlator (DSMAC).

Storm Shadow’s warhead is a tandem-loaded BROACH, designed to penetrate reinforced structures and maximise damage inside the target. The missile can be launched from different air platforms, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale and Panavia Tornado, allowing for great flexibility in operational missions.

International Reactions and British Strategic Considerations

The UK’s position on Ukraine’s use of Storm Shadow missiles has drawn mixed reactions internationally. Some countries believe that allowing attacks inside Russia could escalate the conflict and lead to an aggressive response from Moscow. For this reason, the international community is closely watching London’s decisions.

The UK Ministry of Defence has reaffirmed its commitment to regional security, ensuring that decisions on the transfer and use of arms to Ukraine are taken with the utmost care. This includes consultation with allies and ongoing risk assessments to avoid unnecessary escalation.

Analysts point out that while the use of Storm Shadows is currently restricted, this policy could change if the situation on the ground deteriorates or new strategic considerations emerge. At the moment, the UK’s priority is to support Ukraine without crossing the line that could lead to a wider conflict.