U.K. MoD Launches ‘Nightfall’ Ballistic Missile Program with Over 600 Km Range

The British Ministry of Defense has announced the launch of the Nightfall project, a program to rapidly develop a new operational-tactical ballistic missile with a range exceeding 600 kilometers.

The Ministry has opened an “early solicitation” phase for proposals to create a cost-effective land-based missile. The system is expected to be launched from mobile platforms and capable of striking pre-programmed coordinates with high precision.

The missile will carry an explosive payload of about 300 kilograms, bringing the total warhead weight to at least 400–500 kilograms. It will fly on a quasi-ballistic trajectory, maneuvering in its terminal phase to ensure accuracy with a circular error deviation of no more than five meters.

Planners have also stressed the need for the guidance system to function in “complex electromagnetic environments,” including conditions where satellite navigation is denied or disrupted by electronic warfare systems. Requirements also include a low multispectral signature, suggesting integration of stealth technologies.

The launcher platform must carry at least two missiles and enable safe firing of the entire load within 15 minutes of halting, after which the crew should be able to leave the area within five minutes.

The Ministry of Defense said the program “will prioritize scalability over perfect solutions,” signaling that mass production speed and affordability will take precedence over complex designs. The expected cost per missile is set at no more than £500,000 ($675,000), excluding the warhead, launcher, and development expenses.

Planned production would begin at 10 units per month, with options to expand further. The MoD expects to identify viable concepts within 9–12 months, leading to at least five prototypes ready for testing. If industry feedback is favorable, a competition could be launched in late 2025, with demonstration firings scheduled for 2026.