UK sends multiple rocket launchers to Ukraine

US soldiers sit on the country’s multiple rocket launchers (MLRS) at the military training ground in Grafenwoehr, Germany – Photo: AFP

According to AFP news agency, the British Ministry of Defense said that London was working closely with Washington on supporting multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) to help Kiev resist Moscow’s attack.

The ministry added that the M270 MLRS systems, which can hit targets up to 80km away with precision-guided missiles, will “significantly increase the capabilities of the Ukrainian forces”.

Last week, US President Joe Biden announced that he would provide Ukraine with a highly mobile rocket system (HIMARS) with a range of up to 80km. However, Mr. Biden also insisted that he would not send Kiev weapons capable of reaching Russia.

In response, Putin said Moscow would strike new targets if Washington started supplying Kiev with long-range weapons. According to Reuters news agency, Putin did not specify the names of these new targets.

In addition, the Russian president also said that the West’s supply of new weapons to Ukraine was aimed at “prolonging the conflict”.

However, when announcing Britain’s latest contribution on June 6, Defense Secretary Ben Wallace insisted that Ukraine’s Western allies must maintain the delivery of weapons to help the country “win” the conflict. Currently.

“The UK stands with Ukraine in this war and is playing a leading role in providing the country’s military with the vital weapons they need to defend the country,” Wallace said.

“As Russia’s tactics change, so does our support for Ukraine,” added Secretary Wallace.

The British Ministry of Defense said that Ukrainian troops will be trained in the use of multiple launch rocket systems in the UK, so that they can “maximize the effectiveness of the systems”.

To date, Britain has provided more than 750 million pounds ($937 million) in military assistance to Ukraine, including air defense systems, thousands of anti-tank missiles and various types of ammunition, hundreds of armored vehicles and other equipment.