QinetiQ aids Dstl response to disruptive technologies
QinetiQ is to lead the Weapons Sector Research Framework (WSRF) contract for the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), working with MBDA and Thales under a five-year contract worth up to £300 million.
Under the deal, announced on 28 July, QinetiQ and its partners will offer Dstl easy access to more than 70 industry and academic suppliers, in order to develop and exploit technology for the benefit of the UK armed forces.
Gary Aitkenhead, Chief Executive of Dstl, said: ‘The WSRF brings together our key partners, SMEs and academia to develop the solutions defence and security need in a fast evolving world.’
One key objective of WSRF, which replaces the Weapons Science and Technology Centre contract, is to cover the overall scope of the Future Kinetic Effects and Weapons (FKEW) programme. QinetiQ will assist Dstl by accelerating the process of responding to the use of emerging and disruptive technology such as directed-energy weapons.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
More from Defence Notes
-
![Spain unveils new multi-billion euro defence investment plan]()
Spain unveils new multi-billion euro defence investment plan
The new plan outlined how Spain would reach 2% of its GDP spend on defence by 2025, with €1.9 billion earmarked for new equipment acquisition with several land, naval and air platforms disclosed to be replaced or upgraded.
-
![New Zealand boosts defence spend to US$6.6 billion and vows increased closeness with Australia]()
New Zealand boosts defence spend to US$6.6 billion and vows increased closeness with Australia
This budget will be spent over the next four years and nearly doubles the country’s defence spending as part of GDP to 2%.
-
![UK Chancellor commits £2 billion to make the country a “defence industrial superpower”]()
UK Chancellor commits £2 billion to make the country a “defence industrial superpower”
Rachel Reeves announced port upgrades, protected budgets for innovation and investment in novel technologies.
-
![Avalon 2025: Australian defence budget meets the low expectations of show attendees]()
Avalon 2025: Australian defence budget meets the low expectations of show attendees
The Australian Budget was marked by tax cuts and a looming general election which led to little hope that there would be a substantial defence boost even with a big bill for nuclear submarines due.
-
![Launch of Gilat Defense targets DoD market]()
Launch of Gilat Defense targets DoD market
The communications company Gilat launched its new Gilat Defense division at the Satellite 2025 expo, with future solutions aimed at US military customers.
