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
-
![Sener to tackle uncrewed teaming for convoys under European project]()
Sener to tackle uncrewed teaming for convoys under European project
Sener Aerospace and Defense will lead a multi-national European Defence Fund project to explore swarming and interoperability of UGVs with crewed ground and air vehicles.
-
![How the US Army plans to accelerate replenishment of stockpiles]()
How the US Army plans to accelerate replenishment of stockpiles
The service is betting on multi-year contracts, reducing procurement process bureaucracy and partnering with industry to speed up production.
-
![Germany explores new options for future armoured vehicles]()
Germany explores new options for future armoured vehicles
Germany has a range of requirements for additional or replacement armoured vehicles over the next decade. Shephard analyses how the German Army might use its share of the country's highly publicised €100 billion defence spending boost.
-
![Argentina negotiates acquisition of 6x6 Guarani vehicles]()
Argentina negotiates acquisition of 6x6 Guarani vehicles
The procurement will involve a transfer of technology, with parts of the Guarani platforms produced at Iveco’s facilities in Argentina.
