Airbus joins UK efforts to defend against hypersonic threats
The UK's ballistic missile defences include the ship-launched Aster interceptor. (Photo: UK MoD)
Airbus will bring space sector and ISR experience to the UK MoD's centre of excellence for ballistic and hypersonic missile defence.
Airbus Defence and Space has become a partner in the UK MoD’s Missile Defence Centre (MDC).
The MDC, part of the Defence Science and Technology (DST) directorate, is a government-industry partnership designed to enhance opportunities relating to ballistic missile defence.
Since being established in 2003, its remit has expanded from countering traditional ballistic missiles to advanced missiles, including hypersonic threats.
Related Articles
UK orders more Airbus helicopters
Raytheon contracted for space-based hypersonic missile tracker
Patriot missile integration into Mk41 VLS boosts Aegis air defence capabilities
Markos Trichas, head of UK military space future programmes at Airbus Defence and Space, said: 'Airbus has been working closely with DSTL and Space Command on various intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance "Protect and Defend" projects that could significantly enhance the UK’s capabilities in ballistic defence.'
The MoD's chief scientific adviser, Prof Dame Angela McLean, added: 'Airbus in the UK brings unique expertise to the table, helping strengthen the UK’s missile defence supplier base at a time when threats are developing more rapidly than ever.
“Airbus and our other industrial partners will ensure the MDC remains at the cutting-edge of missile defence science and technology as it seeks to deliver robust capability options for our armed forces.'
More from Land Warfare
-
![IDEX 2025: Hyundai Rotem highlights advanced features of K2 MBT]()
IDEX 2025: Hyundai Rotem highlights advanced features of K2 MBT
One of the few main battle tanks (MBT) displayed at IDEX 2025 was the latest Hyundai Rotem K2 MBT from South Korea, which has already secured its first export contract with Poland, with initial units delivered.
-
![IDEX 2025: Uzbekistan sets out AFV credentials with family of new designs]()
IDEX 2025: Uzbekistan sets out AFV credentials with family of new designs
Uzbekistan's Havztez Defense rolled out a new family of armoured personnel carriers (APCs) at IDEX 2025, offering another national alternative in an already crowded market.
-
![IDEX 2025: Sichuan Jinji unveils new ZJ01 all-terrain vehicle]()
IDEX 2025: Sichuan Jinji unveils new ZJ01 all-terrain vehicle
While China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) markets much of the equipment developed in China for land forces, smaller Chinese contractors are also contributing to military vehicle development.
-
![IDEX 2025: Calidus 8×8 Light Infantry Fighting Vehicle enters production]()
IDEX 2025: Calidus 8×8 Light Infantry Fighting Vehicle enters production
The new Light Infantry Fighting Vehicle (LIFV) builds on Calidus’s experience with its Wahash (8×8) vehicle.
