The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is under pressure to fast-track the rollout of its ambitious new Medium-Range Precision Strike System (MRPS), originally set to be deployed in 2028. But now, as security concerns mount, officials are working hard to bring the project forward.
Maria Eagle, Minister of State, confirmed that the contract for the MRPS is expected to be awarded in 2027, with the system slated for full deployment by 2028. However, she revealed that efforts are being made to shorten the timeline, a move driven by the need to enhance the UK’s military capabilities in an increasingly complex security environment.
While speeding up the process is a priority, Eagle was quick to highlight the importance of balancing speed with safety. “It’s vital we deliver this essential capability quickly,” she stated, “but it must be a safe and highly effective system ready for the challenges of both today and tomorrow.”
The MoD’s progress on the MRPS project is moving forward as planned, with approvals progressing smoothly. A Prior Information Notice (PIN) was issued in October 2024, and an industry day in December saw strong participation from defence sector representatives. The Defence Equipment and Support team continues to engage actively with industry partners to ensure the project remains on track.
The MRPS is set to be a game-changer for the UK military, with a focus on long-range precision strike capabilities. The system will be capable of hitting targets up to 60 km away and is designed to operate in all weather conditions, day or night. It will also be able to loiter in the air for up to 40 minutes, transmitting real-time video for precise target identification. With a planned procurement of at least 200 munitions, the system is expected to provide greater accuracy, flexibility, and resilience in contested environments.
One of the key objectives of the MRPS is to ensure compatibility with the UK’s existing land, sea, and air platforms, making it a versatile addition to the armed forces’ toolkit. The £120 million programme is expected to give the British military a significant advantage in precision strikes against a wide range of targets, from armoured vehicles to fast inshore attack craft.
As the threat landscape evolves, the UK’s commitment to strengthening its long-range strike options has never been clearer. With the MoD pushing to accelerate the timeline, it remains to be seen whether they can meet the growing demand for this essential capability.
