Army Explores New Vehicle-Mounted Counter-Drone System

Key Takeaways

• MoD seeks vehicle‑mounted short‑range counter‑UAS system.
• Part of Land‑GBAD “system of systems” air defence network.
• Designed to operate independently and network with SHORAD/MRAD.
• Targets forward and rear battlefield zones against drones.
• Industry response deadline 10 April; no contract commitment.

Summary

The UK Ministry of Defence’s Defence Equipment and Support has issued a market engagement notice for a specialist counter‑UAS system mounted on an armoured vehicle under the Land‑GBAD programme. The capability is intended to provide short‑range drone defence for both forward and rear battle areas and to integrate with existing SHORAD and MRAD layers. Land‑GBAD follows a “system of systems” approach, delivering incremental air‑defence upgrades over the next decade. Industry responses are due by 10 April, though no contract is yet promised.

Pulse Analysis

The rapid proliferation of small, commercial‑grade unmanned aerial systems has forced modern militaries to rethink battlefield air defence. In the UK, the Land‑GBAD programme was created to stitch together a layered network capable of detecting, warning, and neutralising a spectrum of aerial threats—from fixed‑wing aircraft to loitering munitions. By treating air defence as a “system of systems,” the Ministry of Defence aims to future‑proof its capabilities, allowing new technologies to slot into an evolving architecture over the next ten years.

A key element under review is a specialist counter‑UAS (C‑UAS) mounted on an armoured vehicle, equipped with a short‑range cannon designed to engage hostile drones in both forward and rear operational zones. The design calls for stand‑alone operation while also supporting seamless data exchange with existing SHORAD and MRAD assets, creating a cost‑effective, multi‑engagement layer. This flexibility promises rapid response to swarm attacks and reduces reliance on larger, higher‑cost missile systems, while preserving the mobility and protection needed for frontline units.

The market engagement notice, with a response deadline of 10 April, opens a window for defence contractors to propose innovative solutions without committing the government to an immediate purchase. By phasing contracts over time, the MoD reduces fiscal risk and encourages iterative development, aligning with broader trends toward modular, network‑centric warfare. Successful bids could secure a foothold in the burgeoning counter‑drone market, positioning firms for future UK and NATO contracts as the demand for integrated, vehicle‑based C‑UAS solutions accelerates.