Sensor solutions for high‑speed counter‑UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) interceptors engaging targets at combined closing speeds of up to Mach 1 are part of the seven challenge areas announced earlier today by the UK’s Defence Innovation (UKDI) fund.
“This competition is seeking cost competitive, innovative solutions across seven new challenge areas,” said the proposal text. “Proposals are expected to request up to UKP350,000 (excluding VAT). Proposals must not exceed UKP1,000,000 (excluding VAT) and several proposals may be funded. Our aim is simple: deliver useful technology into service faster than our adversaries. UKDI is looking for solutions that can be demonstrated quickly and scaled for manufacture within approximately twelve months. Projects must reach Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL 6) within six months.
Proposal are due by 12 May 2026 12:00 midday (BST)
For more information
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ukdi-launches-new-phase-of-fast-past-innovation-competition
The 2026 Unmanned Airspace Global Counter-UAS Systems Directory is now available. The Guide is the world’s only comprehensive, continually updated directory of global C-UAS companies and systems. It itemises over 1,000 C-UAS products and services with performance details, company sales and partnerships arrangements. It is updated every month and broken down into niche sub-sectors (net-capture, missiles, intercept drones, detectors etc) to give C-UAS procurement and industry personnel a unique perspective of global C-UAS technical capabilities and market positions. It is available in word, PDF and excel formats and Unmanned Airspace readers are eligible for a range of discounts. For more information about the Directory please contact the editor Philip Butterworth-Hayes at philip@unmannedairspace.info.