The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded a 20-million-pound ($27-million) contract to Lockheed Martin UK to develop a hypersonic target to support counter-hypersonic missile capabilities.
Awarded under Project Bowline, the target will simulate hypersonic threats to evaluate air and missile defense systems, including sensors and interceptors.
The project forms part of AUKUS Pillar 2, the trilateral partnership between Australia, the UK, and the US to develop advanced military capabilities, including hypersonic and counter-hypersonic technologies.
“Delivering Project Bowline will help ensure the UK stays ahead of rapidly evolving hypersonic threats,” UK National Armaments Director Rupert Pearce said.
“By working with our AUKUS partners and investing in advanced missile technology in the UK, we strengthen our national arsenal, boost a key sector in our economy, and support our ability to deliver effective missile defense.”
UK’s Counter-Hypersonic Plans
The UK has yet to announce a dedicated hypersonic interceptor, instead prioritizing a stronger Integrated Air and Missile Defence architecture under its 2025 Strategic Defence Review.
Alongside its AUKUS collaboration, the MoD’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory continues research into advanced sensing and tracking capabilities.
Bowline to Support Small Businesses
The contract will support around 63 jobs in Bedfordshire and benefit 15 UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through the supply chain.
It coincides with the launch of a new Defence SME Action Plan, aimed at expanding opportunities for smaller businesses by opening up supply chains, simplifying procurement, and reducing barriers to working with the defence sector.
“British businesses are the backbone of our defence industry, and we’re backing them to succeed,” UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard, said.
“With our commitment to spend 7.5 billion pounds ($10 billion) with UK SMEs by 2028 and a further 400 million pounds ($535 million) ringfenced for UK Defence Innovation every year, defence is delivering growth across the UK, sustaining skilled jobs and strengthening our security at the same time.”
