Britain is one of the countries that is keen to supply various types of weapons to Ukraine. Most recently, the Kingdom plans to supply combat vehicles and anti-ship missiles, the Harpoon.
British Foreign Secretary, Liz Truss stated that Britain would increase aid in arms and equipment to Ukraine as the war began to enter a new and difficult phase.
"In the face of Putin's aggression against Ukraine, the G7 and NATO are stepping up our efforts in terms of weapons and sanctions," Truss was quoted as saying by Eurasiantimes.
After delivering thousands of missiles, the latest aid to Ukraine is planned in the form of armed vehicles. Another aid is reportedly Harpoon anti-ship missiles, in an effort to end Russia's blockade of Black Sea ports.
Harpoon itself is made by the Boeing company and comes from the United States, but the UK is the main user. This missile has been around since 1977 and continues to be updated in sophistication.
The 3.8 meter long Harpoon can be fired from aircraft, surface ships, submarines, or in coastal defense areas. The price per unit is relatively cheap, around USD 1.5 million.
Harpoons can fly above water to avoid attacks from opponents when aiming at their targets. The tip has a warhead weighing 221 kilograms which will explode once it reaches its target.
Harpoon speed can reach 864 kilometers per hour. The maximum range is about 139 kilometers from the ship and 220 kilometers from the air. It can be different depending on the model.
Easy to move and flexible to operate, the Harpoon is considered to be an ideal weapon for Ukraine. Russia itself with its warships, reportedly has blockaded about 300 ships in the Black Sea.