London/Kyiv (Agencies): The United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MoD) has reinforced Ukraine’s air defense capabilities by supplying the Raven air defense system, a highly mobile and effective solution against drones, missiles, and low-flying aircraft. Mounted on the Supacat High Mobility Transporter (HMT) 600 6×6, the system is equipped with Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM), providing quick-response protection against aerial threats.
The delivery was showcased in a UK MoD video released on May 12, where Colonel Olly Todd, Military Assistant Head of Task Force ‘Kindred’, described Raven as “one of the most effective short-range air defense systems in use in Ukraine at the moment.” Developed in just three months, the system was proposed by the UK Royal Air Force’s Air and Space Warfare Centre and quickly built between September and November 2022, with testing beginning in November.
Since early 2023, Raven has conducted over 400 missile launches, achieving a 75% success rate against Shahed drones and other aerial targets. The first batch of eight systems and nearly 150 missiles was sent to Ukraine, with an additional five expected soon. The system’s mobility and rapid deployment allow Ukrainian forces to counter enemy air attacks efficiently, making it a crucial addition to Ukraine’s layered air defense network.
The UK’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s defenses continues with further technological upgrades planned for Raven, including enhanced radar integration, expanded missile capacity, and advanced electronic warfare countermeasures. Military analysts predict that these improvements will fortify Ukraine’s ability to repel aerial attacks and protect key infrastructure and frontline positions.
This latest UK defense assistance underscores growing international support for Ukraine, ensuring its ability to defend against evolving threats from Russian forces.