British and German startup's hypersonic missile being made could strike deep in Russia
Funding for missile development
Hypersonica, a British-German startup developing long-range hypersonic cruise missiles, says it has secured significant funding. The weapons could strike targets deep inside Russia. Chief executive Philipp Kerth said the debate over Europe’s need for such deterrence capabilities had ended. He said the funding positioned the company to deliver the systems, while describing the technology as a boost to European deterrence.
Part of UK-German cooperation
Hypersonica is part of an Anglo-German defence co-operation agreement. London and Berlin agreed to develop advanced ground-launched missiles with a range of more than 2,000 kilometres. The article says the partnership was signed by former defence secretary John Healey in 2024. The company has also received support from Germany’s Federal Agency for Breakthrough Innovation.
Wider push for long-range weapons
European countries have pursued several initiatives to strengthen their long-range strike capabilities in recent months. Earlier this summer, the UK tested new long-range strike weapons. The government hopes to deliver those weapons to Ukraine within months. The initiative aims to produce munitions faster and at lower cost than existing systems such as Storm Shadow missiles.
Concerns over UK defences
The development comes amid high tension between the UK and Russia. Russian warships have operated around UK waters, while experts have warned of an expanding Russian disinformation campaign against Britain.
Key points
- Hypersonica says significant funding will support its hypersonic cruise missile development.
- The UK-German agreement includes ground-launched missiles with a range exceeding 2,000 kilometres.
- The UK hopes to deliver newly tested long-range strike weapons to Ukraine within months.
- MPs have warned of gaps in Britain’s High North defences ahead of 2030.