UK Royal Navy explores modular counter-drone capabilities for future hybrid fleet
The new Type 26 City-class anti-submarine warfare frigates will operate with uncrewed and autonomous platforms, forming an integral part of the Hybrid Navy vision. (Photo: Crown Copyright/UK Ministry of Defence)
The UK MoD is scoping out systems to counter the growing threat of uncrewed aerial systems, with a focus on low-cost modularity and speed to field.
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is seeking early market engagement looking at counter-uncrewed aerial system (CUAS) capabilities for the Royal Navy (RN) – titled Project METIS and Project TALON.
The two initiatives signal potential future procurement opportunities for modular, containerised CUAS platforms with a focus on cost-efficiency, autonomy and the ability to be deployed across maritime and land platforms.
Under Project METIS – Modular Effects, Tactical Interchangeably System – a request for information (RfI) was issued at the end of February seeking information from potential providers of modular, low-cost effectors to counter the growing issue of uncrewed threats and complement
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Naval Group’s Barracuda bid could deepen Franco-Greek naval alignment]()
Naval Group’s Barracuda bid could deepen Franco-Greek naval alignment
As the Hellenic Navy looks to replace its ageing submarines with a next-generation fleet, other likely contenders for the programme include TKMS, Saab, Fincantieri, Navantia and Hanwha Ocean.
-
![US Navy budget seeks 34 ships on yesterday’s industrial base]()
US Navy budget seeks 34 ships on yesterday’s industrial base
The 2027 budget demands 34 new vessels, but ageing yards and backlogs raise questions about whether American shipbuilding can deliver.
-
![Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement]()
Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement
As advances in uncrewed technology increasingly shape Australia’s maritime future, Shephard spoke with the country’s head of navy capability and a Leidos Australia executive about the operational advantages behind the shift.
-
![Gulf tensions force Western navies to confront mine warfare shortfalls]()
Gulf tensions force Western navies to confront mine warfare shortfalls
The conversion of RFA Lyme Bay comes during signs that European navies may once again need to cooperate on Gulf mine clearance operations.
