Overview

• The UK military conducted a simulation of Russian missile strikes based on the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, revealing significant weaknesses in its air defence systems.
• The exercise exposed a shortage of airfields and hardened aircraft shelters, consequences of decades of base closures since the 1990s.
• The simulation did not account for advanced Russian hypersonic missiles, such as Zircon and Kinzhal, which present additional threats.
• The Ministry of Defence emphasized the UK’s reliance on a layered defence system, including Sea Viper destroyers, Sky Sabre, and NATO coordination for airspace protection.
• A strategic defence review will examine these vulnerabilities and explore enhanced measures to counter evolving missile threats.