--- title: "MBDA and Luch join forces: launch of the new NEPTUNE2 missile" description: "European consortium MBDA and Ukrainian Luch Design Bureau have signed a memorandum to create the new NEPTUNE2 missile. This is a joint project to develop long-range strike systems based on the experience of the Neptune missile. πŸš€πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί" date: 2026-06-16T23:50:00.000Z lang: en url: https://xab.info/en/posts/mbda-and-luch-creation-of-neptune2-missile-en tags: [] publisher: "XAB.info" --- # MBDA and Luch join forces: launch of the new NEPTUNE2 missile ![Launch of a missile from a mobile launcher, illustrating the collaboration between MBDA and 'Luch' in the creation of the new NEPTUNE2 missile](https://xab.info/media/2026/06/17/mbda-i-luch-sozdanie-rakety-neptune2/mbda-i-luch-sozdanie-rakety-neptune2-1.webp) A significant step has been taken in the sphere of defense cooperation between Ukraine and Europe. The European consortium MBDA, known as the manufacturer of Storm Shadow cruise missiles, has officially signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Ukrainian Luch Design Bureau. The parties have agreed to jointly develop new prospective weaponry β€” the NEPTUNE2 cruise missile. Information about the signing of the document was confirmed by RBC-Ukraine, citing an official statement from MBDA. The memorandum of understanding records the partners' intention to work on innovative solutions for striking targets at long distances. The NEPTUNE2 project is positioned as a logical development of the already proven Neptune missile. ### Technological alliance: European and Ukrainian experience The essence of the agreement lies in combining the competencies of two leading players. MBDA, being a European leader in the field of complex missile systems, provides its technologies and international partnerships. On the Ukrainian side, the key role is played by the Luch Design Bureau β€” an enterprise specializing in the design and production of high-tech weaponry. Luch's reputation was solidified in 2022 when the Neptune missile developed by them was used to destroy the Russian missile cruiser Moskva. In MBDA's statement, it is emphasized that this cooperation demonstrates the European company's contribution to supporting Ukraine's defense potential. ### Context: shortage and the need for new solutions The creation of own and joint weapon samples is becoming critically important against the backdrop of the current situation. The Ukrainian Air Force has reported a serious shortage of foreign ammunition. In particular, there was a shortage of missiles for Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T air defense systems, with ammunition in some units practically exhausted. Parallel to the NEPTUNE2 project, other initiatives are developing. Thus, the company Fire Point has completed work on the FP-7.x anti-ballistic missile and conducted its tests. The founder of the company, Stillerman, previously stated that the FP-7 and FP-9 missiles would become Ukrainian analogues of American ATACMS, but at the same time would be twice as cheap. The signed memorandum between MBDA and Luch opens the way to the creation of a new generation of long-range missiles, combining European development and Ukrainian technologies, which strengthens strategic defense partnership.