DASA eyes alternative weapons guidance trials by 2025
The UK is looking at non-satellite guidance methods for weapons. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) in the UK has launched a new market exploration in search of innovative military navigation solutions as alternatives to satellite guidance for weapon systems.
‘Alternative Navigation for Weapon Systems’, launched on 10 February, is being run on behalf of MoD Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) and seeks to understand the range of technologies used for commercial positioning and navigation systems.
Proposals must be submitted by 7 April 2022.
The potential system should be available for trials by early 2025 and be ‘developed to an operational level in either a civilian or on military application’, DASA noted.
It added that the proposed solutions should also have reached maturity of Technology Readiness Level 4 or above; ‘not be solely reliant’ on GNSS; have the potential to be further developed to meet military specifications; and be sufficiently accurate to monitor position during deployment to within 5m.
More from Defence Notes
-
Collins MAPS Gen II to equip US DoD watercraft
US services have already conducted multiple tests with military maritime systems fitted with the system.
-
MBDA CEO emphasises “moment of truth” for Europe as company sees €37 billion backlog
MBDA CEO Éric Béranger stressed the company’s role supporting European countries with complex weapon systems and focused on boosting production against the backdrop of “shifting” geopolitical alliances.
-
Rheinmetall reports “boom” as results hit new records with orders for vehicles, ammunition and weapons
Rheinmetall is riding high as Europe scrambles to boost its defence forces and replenish spent stockpiles sent to Ukraine.
-
Leonardo projects €30 billion in revenue by 2029
The forecast came as the Italian firm presented its new 2025–29 industrial plan to analysts, with its future figures bolstered by the European increase in defence spending.
-
UK Parliament told that Europe needs to do more within NATO and undertake reforms
Speaking before a committee on European affairs, the speakers addressed recent developments following an eventful few days. During this period, the UK pushed for increased support for Ukraine, while the EU eased budget constraints to allow for greater defence spending. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, US President Donald Trump introduced tariffs that could impact the defence industry.