Accelerated Funding Boosts Innovative Solutions for Force Protection

UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) has officially announced the launch of a new Themed Competition titled Project PANOPTES. This initiative, conducted on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD), aims to develop an integrated Counter-Uncrewed Aerial System (C-UAS) force-protection capability.

This competition is specifically targeting innovators based in the UK and offers a share of £5 million in funding to successful projects. The deadline for submitting proposals for Stage 1 is set for midday on 23 September 2026 (BST).

Overview of the Submission Process

The competition features a two-stage submission process designed to reduce the workload for both applicants and assessors. In Stage 1, participants will provide an initial outline of their innovative ideas. Those whose submissions are successful will then be invited to submit more detailed proposals in Stage 2.

For further details on this two-stage process, interested parties can consult the Competition Document.

Identifying the Need for Innovation

The MOD is actively seeking innovative solutions to effectively detect, track, identify, and neutralise mass and low-cost aerial threats in a cost-effective manner, without depleting resources or overwhelming existing capabilities. This is crucial not only for deployed land forces but also for the protection of fixed defence infrastructure.

Current methodologies face limitations due to existing capabilities, high costs, restricted manoeuvrability, and the rapid evolution of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). To maintain a competitive edge in warfare, UKDI is calling for creative ideas that address these pressing challenges.

Criteria for Proposed Solutions

Proposals should aim to safeguard deployed personnel from complex aerial assaults designed to exhaust current infrastructure and munitions. The objective is to provide a more cost-effective response to emerging aerial threats compared to traditional systems. Solutions should leverage open architectures, utilize platform-generated power, incorporate modular designs, and possess the capability for autonomous operation. The MOD is particularly interested in a variety of innovative and credible solutions, including but not limited to Laser Directed Energy Weapons (LDEWs).

Submissions should also address the following considerations:

• Integration with future uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs)
• Compatibility with future Army and Joint Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems
• Potential for export opportunities

For a comprehensive understanding of the requirements, please refer to the Competition Document.

Engagement Opportunities and Next Steps

A launch webinar is scheduled for 9 September 2026, offering further insights into the operational context surrounding the competition. This event will also provide participants with an opportunity to ask questions in an open forum. Those interested in attending should register via the Eventbrite page.

Prior to attending the webinar, participants are encouraged to thoroughly review the Competition Document.

If you possess a capability that could enhance the protection of deployed forces and preserve our munitions, please visit the Competition Document to submit your proposal.