Airbus joins UK efforts to defend against hypersonic threats
The UK's ballistic missile defences include the ship-launched Aster interceptor. (Photo: UK MoD)
Airbus will bring space sector and ISR experience to the UK MoD's centre of excellence for ballistic and hypersonic missile defence.
Airbus Defence and Space has become a partner in the UK MoD’s Missile Defence Centre (MDC).
The MDC, part of the Defence Science and Technology (DST) directorate, is a government-industry partnership designed to enhance opportunities relating to ballistic missile defence.
Since being established in 2003, its remit has expanded from countering traditional ballistic missiles to advanced missiles, including hypersonic threats.
Related Articles
UK orders more Airbus helicopters
Raytheon contracted for space-based hypersonic missile tracker
Patriot missile integration into Mk41 VLS boosts Aegis air defence capabilities
Markos Trichas, head of UK military space future programmes at Airbus Defence and Space, said: 'Airbus has been working closely with DSTL and Space Command on various intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance "Protect and Defend" projects that could significantly enhance the UK’s capabilities in ballistic defence.'
The MoD's chief scientific adviser, Prof Dame Angela McLean, added: 'Airbus in the UK brings unique expertise to the table, helping strengthen the UK’s missile defence supplier base at a time when threats are developing more rapidly than ever.
“Airbus and our other industrial partners will ensure the MDC remains at the cutting-edge of missile defence science and technology as it seeks to deliver robust capability options for our armed forces.'
More from Land Warfare
-
![CAVS rides a wave and prepares for surge requirements as orders roll in]()
CAVS rides a wave and prepares for surge requirements as orders roll in
The Common Armoured Vehicle System is continuing to rack up orders as the British Army looks likely to become an operator of the vehicle, while Italy and Ireland are also contenders.
-
![Norway opts for Hanwha’s Chunmoo for long-range fires under $2 billion deal]()
Norway opts for Hanwha’s Chunmoo for long-range fires under $2 billion deal
The selection of Hanwha’s K239 Chunmoo long-range precision fires system, with a contract expected to be signed on 30 January, makes Norway the second European country to choose the system. It is expected an operational system will be in service within four years.
-
![Land forces review: Tanks, trucks and IFVs dominate but woes remain for Ajax]()
Land forces review: Tanks, trucks and IFVs dominate but woes remain for Ajax
This year has begun with main battle tanks taking the lead while orders for large logistics and support vehicles continued from last year. Additionally, two of the British Army’s most significant contracted vehicle programmes, Ajax reconnaissance vehicle and Challenger 3 tank, continued to make news in January.
-
![Canada looking to expedite purchase of armoured fighting vehicle and a new tank]()
Canada looking to expedite purchase of armoured fighting vehicle and a new tank
Canada is improving its Leopard main battle tank fleet but before this is fully completed, it is expected to begin looking for new vehicles.
