Dstl, QinetiQ complete APS trials
Trials of an Active Protection System (APS) for Dstl’s Medusa Technology Assessment Programme (TAP) by a QinetiQ-led industry team are now complete.
Part of Dstl’s Active Integrated Protection Systems Research Project, QinetiQ was contracted to conduct Medusa and assess the Hensoldt MUSS system, with the support of industrial and UK Ministry of Defence partners, Hensoldt, BAE Systems, Frazer-Nash Consultancy and Textron ESL.
The system’s performance and utility was evaluated with respect to subsystem and system performance, system integration, human factors integration as well as its safety, security and legality, and the operational impacts associated with use and deployment of such a system. The integration assessment included the installation of a MUSS system on a Challenger 2 main battle tank, coupled with assessment by the British Army to understand the benefits and challenges associated with such equipment.
The laboratory testing and trial of the system culminated in a full end-end system evaluation during missile live fire trials held in Woomera, South Australia, conducted as part of the AUS/UK bi-lateral partnership between Dstl and DST Group (Australia).
According to QinetiQ, Medusa has provided vital insights into the capabilities, benefits and limitations of APS equipment, and will be used to inform future direction for both APS research and evaluation activities, and support to potential future acquisition programmes.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Saab to begin delivering new missile variant for RBS 70 air defence system in 2027]()
Saab to begin delivering new missile variant for RBS 70 air defence system in 2027
The Bolide 2 missile has a larger warhead than the original version as well as an aluminium nose cone, which replaces a copper version and allows for more explosive content and fragments.
-
![SAHA 2026: MKE sets its sights on the Turkish Army’s self-propelled guns]()
SAHA 2026: MKE sets its sights on the Turkish Army’s self-propelled guns
With multiple artillery platforms on display at SAHA 2026, Turkey’s defence contractors are positioning to replace the country’s older imported platforms.
-
![Saab unveils new round to defeat explosive reactive armour]()
Saab unveils new round to defeat explosive reactive armour
The HEAT 758 has a tandem warhead consisting of an initial charge which neutralises the explosive reactive armour and the main charge which penetrates the primary armour. It is fired from a standard Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon launcher and has been ordered by an undisclosed customer.
-
![India’s high-altitude logistics drone push drives demand as BonV Aero launches Air Orca]()
India’s high-altitude logistics drone push drives demand as BonV Aero launches Air Orca
The Indian Army's major drone procurement programme has drawn attention from BonV Aero which has launched its heavy-lift platform for extreme terrain missions.
