This article is published in Aerospace Daily & Defense Report part of Aviation Week Intelligence Network (AWIN), and is complimentary through Aug 24, 2026. For information on becoming an AWIN Member to access more content like this, click here.
Hypersonic missile
FARNBOROUGH, England–The UK defense ministry is set to spend £20 million ($26.7 million) to develop a hypersonic target to generate data in support of air and missile defense.
The target is called a “hypersonic clay pigeon” and will be developed by Lockheed Martin UK as part of the UK’s Project Bowline. It will help UK industry test next-generation air defense systems, including sensors and interceptors, Defense Readiness and Industry Minister Luke Pollard said July 21 at the second day of the Farnborough Airshow here.
The project is part of ongoing international collaboration with Australia and the U.S. through AUKUS Pillar 2.
He said the project would “rebuild Britain’s sovereign hypersonic target capability after a decade-long capability gap.”
The target will be designed to hit speeds of up to Mach 5, the UK defense ministry said.
“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.”
Related Content
