At the European Group of Five (E5) meeting today, Friday 20 February, in Krakow, the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Poland have agreed to launch the ‘Low-Cost Effectors & Autonomous Platforms’ initiative, known as LEAP.
“LEAP will see the development of advanced low-cost air defence systems – such as autonomous drones or missiles – the first project of which will be delivered by 2027, providing an unparalleled opportunity to harness European defence financing, leadership, AI and autonomy,” said the UK’s Ministry of Defence in a press release.
According to UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said: “European security is at a pivotal moment. The UK and our E5 partners are stepping up – investing together in the next generation of air defence and autonomous systems to strengthen NATO’s shield and keep our people safe.”
The new surface-to-air weapon – a lightweight, affordable weapon designed to counter the drone and missile threat – has been inspired by Ukraine’s battlefield innovation; the programme will prioritise speed and adaptability, said the statement. LEAP will draw proposals from major defence manufacturers and small and medium sized enterprises.
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