Hypersonic weapon systems are considered as emerging disruptive technologies with the potential to revolutionise the way air and missile defence is conducted. In fact, some systems are reported to have been used for the first time in the Russian military aggression to Ukraine, showing the relevance and need for a European solution to counter such weapons.
On 11 December 2023, with the signature of a Contribution Agreement, the European Commission (EC) entrusted to the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) the implementation of the European Defence Fund (EDF) 2023 action “Endo-atmospheric interceptor – concept phase”, under indirect management.
The project selected for this action is “Hypersonic Defence Interceptor Study” (HYDIS²), a project coordinated by MBDA and bringing together 19 partners and more than 20 subcontractors across 14 European countries.
The objective of HYDIS² is to study various interceptor concepts to counter-hypersonic weapons and early maturation of critical technologies.
The project aims to address the challenges posed by complex threats like advanced manoeuvring ballistic missiles, hypersonic cruise missiles or hypersonic glide vehicles.
OCCAR will now finalize and swiftly sign a Grant Agreement with the above-mentioned consortium, allowing the work to start, where EC will provide a contribution of 80 M€.
Details
- Publication date
- 11 December 2023