The UK has provided the first glimpse of the highly secretive Gravehawk air defense system it has been developing for Ukraine.
Based on the photos shared by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the system features two modified R-73 infrared-guided missiles mounted on a containerized launcher unit, which is attached to a military truck chassis.
It also includes an integrated crane for loading new missiles into the launcher.
A separate launch control unit is seen in the back of a 4×4 vehicle, suggesting that the system provides standoff firing capability for Ukrainian operators.
A total of 15 Gravehawks are expected to be delivered to Kyiv later this year.
“2025 is a critical year for the war in Ukraine,” UK Defence Secretary John Healey said. “Ukrainians continue to fight with huge courage… And their bravery — fused with our support — has proved a lethal combination.”
“While Russia is weakened, it remains undeniably dangerous. We must step up further — and secure peace through strength — together.”
The UK’s military news network Forces News has provided us the first look at the Gravehawk Short Range Air Defence system that is capable of launching Soviet-legacy R-73 Air to Air missiles from a ground-based platform that fits inside of a 20-foot shipping container.
— Jeff2146
(@Jeff21461) February 12, 2025
Addressing Lack of Air Defense
First unveiled in January 2025, the Gravehawk aims to solve one of Ukraine’s most urgent challenges: a severe shortage of air defense against Russia’s escalating aerial assaults.
The system essentially adapts the R-73 air-to-air missiles so they can be fired from a ground-based system to intercept drones, cruise missiles, and enemy aircraft.
Mounted on top of the container is a high-performance camera that uses passive infrared to detect targets without revealing the Gravehawk’s location.
The captured data is then sent to a command module, allowing operators to lock onto a target once a heat signature is detected.
Each Gravehawk reportedly requires five personnel to operate.
According to DE&S, the system is the result of collaboration between several British defense companies. It was also developed in just 18 months at a cost of 6 million pounds ($7.5 million).
