UK Releases First Images of Ukraine’s Secretive Gravehawk Air Defense System

GravehawkGravehawk

The Gravehawk air defense system. Photo: UK's DE&S

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.”

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).

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