How detection-led C-UAS solutions are transforming drone defense
Modern C-UAS solutions must detect threats early, integrate layered sensors, and deliver fast, scalable, adaptable defense against evolving drones.
The MoD awarded Boeing Defence UK a contract to head up maintenance and training services for the RAF fleet of Poseidon MRA Mk.1 aircraft. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
The UK MoD announced on 8 July that it has signed a contract worth £233.5 million ($322 million) for Boeing Defence UK to maintain and support the RAF fleet of nine Poseidon P-8A maritime patrol aircraft (MPA).
Additionally, the five-year deal features ‘a comprehensive training package for aircraft crews’, the MoD noted in a statement. Shephard reported in January 2021 that Boeing would select CAE for the training service support contract.
This deal creates 153 jobs in the UK, primarily at RAF Lossiemouth where five Poseidons are currently based (the remaining four are to arrive by November 2021, according to Shephard Defence Insight).
Malcolm French, DE&S P-8A Poseidon team leader at MoD Defence Equipment & Support, said the contract ‘helps enable the full range of capability that Poseidon brings to be realised, sees our modern aircraft fully supported, and our personnel being trained from state-of-the-art facilities’.
In July 2016, the UK government announced the nine-aircraft P-8A order for the RAF. In August 2018, the RAF announced that the aircraft will be officially designated Poseidon MRA Mk.1.
RAF Lossiemouth includes a £100 million purpose-built facility for Poseidon, opened in September 2020, and the base also underwent an upgrade of its runway and other infrastructure.
‘It will be the future home of the UK’s fleet of Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning surveillance aircraft,’ the MoD added.
Modern C-UAS solutions must detect threats early, integrate layered sensors, and deliver fast, scalable, adaptable defense against evolving drones.
The United Arab Emirates has taken the lion’s share of this round, with the US supporting its F-16 fleet and signing off on possible sales for more AMRAAM AIM-120 missiles and a counter-drone system.
Defence industry primes are working on an array of different platforms to meet the growing need for rotary uncrewed aerial vehicles to carry out future logistics missions.
With some Eastern European countries already upgrading their helicopter fleets to incorporate Western technology, the region presents potential future opportunities for defence companies.
The first of three E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, originally ordered in 2019, is now expected to be delivered to the RAF this year after multiple “difficulties”.
The M-346 stands as a potential contender for various countries facing impending capability gaps due to ageing trainer aircraft, while it could also be selected as a cost-effective light fighter aircraft.