The United Kingdom has delivered 13 Raven air defence systems to Ukraine and plans to send more Gravehawk units in the coming weeks, according to a written parliamentary answer issued on 6 January 2026.
Minister for Veterans Al Carns confirmed that "13 RAVEN air-defence systems have now been provided to Ukraine, giving Ukrainian units the ability to rapidly defend themselves against Russian aerial threats." The systems are already operational with Ukrainian forces.
Raven represents a British-funded solution developed specifically for Ukraine's requirements. The system converts the RAF's AIM-132 ASRAAM air-to-air missile for ground launches, creating a mobile platform against drones, aircraft and helicopters near the front line, with some capacity to target cruise missiles.
The Ministry of Defence also disclosed progress on Gravehawk deliveries. "Two prototype GRAVEHAWK air-defence systems have been delivered to Ukraine so far," Carns stated in response to a question from Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty. He added that "of the additional 15 GRAVEHAWK systems on contract, the first batch will be delivered shortly."
Gravehawk uses a different approach than Raven. The joint UK-Danish programme adapts Ukraine's existing R-73 air-to-air missiles for ground operations, a design choice intended to reduce logistical complications. The system focuses on drone threats but can also engage aircraft, helicopters and potentially cruise missiles. Its primary mission is protecting critical infrastructure from Russian long-range strikes.
Both programmes illustrate Britain's strategy of rapid weapons development driven by battlefield demands. The Raven system in particular has been presented by the Ministry of Defence as an example of accelerated innovation responding to operational needs in Ukraine.
