ARMAMENTS

The UK Defense Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has been awarded £3.5 million for the development of new innovative missile systems.

Known as the Co-operative Strike Weapons Technology Demonstrator (CSWTD), the project, led by the Dstl Laboratory, will explore how inter-missile communication can enable the weapon systems to work together and also improve the performance of current systems.

The project aims to increase the flexibility of missiles, ensuring that they can react to a changing threat and improve their responsiveness. According to the Dstl announcement, the project will change the way missiles operate together with an upgrade to the software system that allows this cooperative behaviour.

Minister for Defence Procurement, Jeremy Quin said:

Drawing on the vital expertise of our Dstl scientists, innovative new missile systems will enhance our current capabilities as Defence adapts to meet future threats.

With an investment into research and development, this project highlights the central role science and technology plays in informing how our assets operate.

Dstl Scientist Charlie said:

Currently missiles can communicate with the launch platform but not each other.

The aim of this programme is to investigate how inter-missile communication and cooperative behaviours can be technically achieved to solve UK military challenges.

Work began on the programme in April this year and is expected to last just over 2 years. The current stage of the programme sees Dstl scientists assessing different military tactics and scenarios in close collaboration with industry partner MBDA.

A demonstration will take place throughout the project, and if successful, UK platforms could be exploiting the benefits of a smarter integrated network of missiles within 5 years.

Dstl has just announced its biggest recruitment campaign in recent years and will also celebrate its 20th anniversary of service this weekend.

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