Story perspectives

UK to begin full STRATUS missile tests in 2028

8/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Ministry of Defence confirmed full-scale STRATUS missile tests will begin in 2028.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the program has tested the airframe, engine, warhead and seeker.
The Defence Investment Plan allocates £1.4 billion to fit Typhoon aircraft and new frigates with STRATUS.
All 13 Type 26 and Type 31 frigates under construction will carry heavyweight STRATUS missiles.
France committed publicly to the RS variant for Rafale’s future SEAD/DEAD capability.

History

Historical Context

Britain’s 1998 £1.2 billion Storm Shadow programme, delivering a 250 km cruise missile on Tornado GR4, proved the Franco-British model for long-range strike. Building on that, the 2017 UK-France Stratus (FC/ASW) project—now joined by Italy—targets replacement of Storm Shadow and naval missiles, with full-scale tests slated for 2028 and a £1.4 billion budget announced by Defence Minister Luke Pollard.

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Story summary

The Ministry of Defence confirmed full-scale STRATUS missile tests will begin in 2028.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the program has tested the airframe, engine, warhead and seeker.
The Defence Investment Plan allocates £1.4 billion to fit Typhoon aircraft and new frigates with STRATUS.
All 13 Type 26 and Type 31 frigates under construction will carry heavyweight STRATUS missiles.
France committed publicly to the RS variant for Rafale’s future SEAD/DEAD capability.

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