Britain to supply Ukraine with anti-aircraft missiles

 LONDON, March 9 Reuters - Britain is planning to supply Ukraine with anti-aircraft missiles to help it defend its skies from Russian invasion, defence minister Ben Wallace said, stressing that the technology fell within the definition of defensive weapons. 

 
“In response to Ukrainian requests, the government has taken the decision to explore the donation of STARStreak high-velocity man-portable anti-air missiles. We believe that this system will remain within the definition of defensive weapons, but will allow the Ukrainian force to better defend their skies.” he said adding that the government was working out how to get them into Ukraine and train Ukrainian forces to use them.   

If confirmed, the supply would mark a significant step in Britain’s support for Ukraine.However Britain’s support has been limited to defensive weaponry.  “Everything we do is bound by the decision to supply defensive systems, and are calibrated not to escalate to a strategic level,” Wallace said.