New UK strategic agreement focuses on next-generation airborne countermeasures
Anti-missile countermeasures from Chemring equip a wide range of aircraft such as the F-15E. (Photo: Chemring)
The evolving threat posed by guided missiles has prompted the RAF and UK MoD to sign a strategic partnering agreement with Chemring Countermeasures UK.
Chemring Countermeasures UK on 6 May signed a strategic partnering arrangement (SPA) with the RAF, MoD Defence Equipment & Support and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, to ensure ‘long-term provision of optimum air platform protection, including the exploitation of current capabilities and the development of new technology’.
The ten-year SPA will see Chemring Countermeasures focus on improving aircraft self-defence for RAF fast jet, transport and helicopter platforms to counter evolving threats posed by guided missiles, the company noted in a statement.
This SPA will aid information sharing to facilitate a collaborative approach and encouraging co-operation such that the right level of capability is available to the front line at the right time.
‘The SPA will underpin the development of the next generation of countermeasures,’ the company added. ‘Where appropriate, it will also allow CCM to make such decoy technology available to a wide range of allies and partner nations, increasing survivability of aircraft and aircrew.’
More from Air Warfare
-
![CH-47 Chinook: why the iconic helicopter design is still a heavy-lift contender (updated 2026)]()
CH-47 Chinook: why the iconic helicopter design is still a heavy-lift contender (updated 2026)
From its emergence as a ground-breaking design in the 1950s to its widespread deployment in diverse operations worldwide, the Chinook continues to leave an indelible mark on the aviation landscape. Shephard sums up the helicopter’s latest developments.
-
![UK vows to accelerate Lyra programme for Ukraine as defence industry eyes opportunities]()
UK vows to accelerate Lyra programme for Ukraine as defence industry eyes opportunities
Project Nightfall and Project Octopus both fall under the Lyra programme, with UK industry working to develop and deliver additional missiles and drones to help bolster Ukraine’s warfighting capabilities against Russia.
-
![How detection-led C-UAS solutions are transforming drone defense]()
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.
-
![How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics]()
How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics
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.
