British-German startup says hypersonic missile being made could strike deep inside Russia
Funding for missile development
Hypersonica, a British-German startup working on hypersonic long-range cruise missiles, says it has received significant funding. The weapons under development could strike deep inside Russia. Chief executive Philipp Kerth said the argument over whether Europe needs such deterrence capabilities had ended. He said the funding would help determine who can deliver the systems.
Part of UK-German cooperation
Hypersonica is involved in an Anglo-German defence cooperation agreement. London and Berlin agreed to develop advanced ground-launched missiles with a range of more than 2,000 kilometres. The company has also received support from the German Federal Agency for Breakthrough Innovation. It says its aim is to provide Europe and its allies with a sovereign hypersonic strike capability.
European strike efforts expand
European countries have pursued several initiatives in recent months to improve their long-range strike capabilities. Earlier this summer, the UK tested new long-range strike weapons, with the government hoping to deliver them to Ukraine within months.
Security concerns around Russia
The missile project comes amid high tension between the UK and Russia. Russian warships have operated around UK waters, while experts have warned that Moscow is increasing its disinformation campaign against Britain.
Key points
- Hypersonica says it has received significant funding for hypersonic cruise missile development.
- The UK-German agreement covers ground-launched missiles with a range greater than 2,000 kilometres.
- The UK tested long-range strike weapons earlier this summer and hopes to deliver them to Ukraine within months.
- MPs have identified gaps in Britain’s High North defence posture.