Britain first gave Brimstone missiles to Ukraine about six months ago. However, a video released last month by the British Forces Broadcasting Service showed the more advanced version being prepared for transportation at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire.

The missiles, which each cost about £175,000, can hit targets by tracking a laser fired by troops, aircraft or vehicles, or select its own target from a pre-programmed list through the use of an extremely high-frequency millimetric wave radar.

This system allows the weapon to scan the battlefield and select the most appropriate target, discounting civilian vehicles or less important military equipment.

When guided by a laser fired by friendly troops, Brimstone can be used in built-up areas with great precision, limiting the potential for collateral damage among the civilian population.