France delivers first batch of SCALP long-range missiles to Ukraine, says ambassador

nv.ua:  Ukraine has received the first batch of the French SCALP long-range cruise missiles, according to the Ukrainian Ambassador to Paris, Vadym Omelchenko, in an interview with Ukrainian news outlet LB.ua. 

The diplomat mentioned that the batch was intended as a trial run and that the missiles have performed well in testing.

"SCALP deliveries will continue; the key question is their pace, and in this regard, France is doing very well," Omelchenko said.

Regarding the potential transfer of French-Italian SAMP/T air defense systems, Omelchenko stated that the matter remains under consideration by the leaders of both countries, defense ministers, as well as military chiefs of staff.

"I think we have good prospects. All sides involved understand Ukraine needs to receive these systems as soon as possible," he added.

The SCALP is the French version of the Storm Shadow missile already provided by the United Kingdom. Manufactured by MBDA, the long-range air-to-surface cruise missile has a warhead weighing 450 kilograms and is capable of striking targets over 250 kilometers away.