May 10, 2025
The Ministry of Defence has showcased the Raven air defence system in a recent video on its official YouTube channel, providing insight into how the innovative system has become a key asset in Ukraine’s air defence network.
The video features Colonel Todd from Task Force Kindred, who provides an overview of Raven’s development and operational effectiveness.
According to the MOD video, the Raven system was conceived and delivered within three months in 2022. It is built on the HMT 600 Supercat vehicle, utilising surplus ASRAAM air-to-air missiles mounted on adapted rails from decommissioned aircraft such as the Hawk, Jaguar, and Tornado.
This rapid innovation led to one of the most effective short-range air defence systems currently in use in Ukraine.
Colonel Todd describes Raven as an “amazing system” that was developed in collaboration between UK industry, the RAF Air and Space Warfare Centre, MBDA, and DE&S. He notes that it has demonstrated significant success in Ukraine, with over 400 engagements recorded so far, achieving a success rate of more than 70%. The system has proven particularly effective against drones, cruise missiles, and potentially against aircraft and helicopters.
The Raven system can be operated either from within the vehicle cab or remotely from up to 50 metres away, using a gamepad-style controller to identify, track, and engage targets. This flexible approach allows operators to remain in relative safety while maintaining high responsiveness.
As described in the video, the Raven is praised by Ukrainian forces for its reliability and utility within their air defence network. Colonel Todd stated: “The Ukrainians love this system. They said how effective it is and how important it has been as part of their air defence network.”
The MOD highlights that eight Raven systems were initially sent to Ukraine in 2022, followed by an additional five systems. The project utilises equipment from the UK’s existing inventory that was otherwise scheduled for disposal, allowing support to Ukraine at minimal cost to UK operational readiness.
Colonel Todd explains the value of the project: “The Raven system, both the vehicle, the rail, and the missile, uses systems which were in the UK inventory but were no longer required. These were missiles which had had their operational use in the RAF and were otherwise planned for disposal. Therefore, the support to Ukraine has not been at the expense of UK operations or readiness.”
George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
A commenter named geofo60, on the recent Sir Ben Wallace interview for Times Radio said :
“Interesting interview with Sir Ben. With respect to air defence systems, I”m surprised that he didn’t mention Raven of which the U.K.have provided five and three more are ready for delivery. It’s similar to the Patriot system, but costs a fraction to build and there are high stocks of missiles to support them.”
I had heard of Raven, but my interest was piqued because it seems to me that air defence is one of the most urgent priorities. The psychopathic nazi running putlerstan is deriving sadistic gratification from the child murderers of his scum horde.
The Ukrainians like this system and have eight, with five more coming.
Sir Keir Starmer must prioritise the production of many more of these; especially in light of the fact that no one seems to be sending any Patriots.
I am glad that the RAF and MOD managed to MacGyver a solution so quickly. It needs to be scaled up of course.
Keep it going lads!
Tzipi Hotovely, Israel’s Ambassador to the UK, wrote an article for the DT headed:
“Israel deserves support, not scorn, as it confronts a savage Nazi-like terror group.”
She says :
“The obstacle to peace is Hamas. Britain would not accept living next to a force that wants to destroy it.”
“We desperately want to live in peace with our neighbours, but the presence and ongoing attacks from genocidal terror groups on our border causes such a peace to remain elusive. I am sure that no Briton would accept an Islamist terror group operating on its border, sworn to destroy the UK.”
I totally agree with her description of Hamas as a “savage Nazi-like terror group.” But why doesn’t her shitty government say that about Hamas’s sponsor; putlerstan?
And why won’t it help Ukraine; a democracy with the only Jewish president in the world outside Israel?
Why?
Why doesn’t ANY politician from a civilised country use the term “savage Nazi-like terror group” for the genocide regime of putlerstan?
Why?