Introduction to Project PANOPTES
UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) has officially announced the launch of an exciting new initiative known as Project PANOPTES. This Themed Competition is being conducted on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and aims to develop an integrated Counter-Uncrewed Aerial System (C-UAS) force-protection capability. The initiative is open to innovators based in the UK, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to national defence efforts.
The competition allows for submissions in a two-stage process designed to streamline the experience for both applicants and assessors. The first stage serves as an initial screening where participants can present their innovative concepts. Successful candidates will then be invited to submit more detailed proposals in the second stage.
Key Objectives and Challenges
The MOD is actively seeking cutting-edge innovations that can effectively detect, track, identify, and neutralise both mass and low-cost aerial threats in a cost-efficient manner. This requirement is increasingly critical for deployed land forces and the safeguarding of defence infrastructure.
Current methods face significant limitations, including capability constraints, high operational costs, and challenges in manoeuvrability, particularly given the rapid evolution of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). To maintain the UK’s strategic advantage in military operations, UKDI is looking for inventive solutions to overcome these challenges.
Requirements for Innovative Solutions
Participants are encouraged to develop solutions that can effectively shield deployed forces from sophisticated attacks aimed at overwhelming existing defences and ammunition supplies. The proposed systems should offer a more economical response to emerging aerial threats compared to traditional legacy systems. Emphasis will be placed on harnessing open architectures, utilising power from platforms, modular designs, and enabling autonomous operations.
The MOD is particularly interested in a diverse array of innovative and feasible solutions, including but not limited to Laser Directed Energy Weapons (LDEWs).
Furthermore, the proposed solutions should take into account the following considerations:
- Integration with potential future uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs).
- Compatibility with forthcoming Army and Joint Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) capabilities.
- Opportunities for exportation of developed technologies.
Details regarding the comprehensive requirements can be found in the Competition Document.
Engagement and Information Sessions
To assist potential participants, a launch webinar is scheduled for 9 September 2026. This session will provide additional insights into the operational context surrounding the challenges and will also create an open forum for attendees to pose questions. Interested individuals are encouraged to register for the webinar via the Eventbrite page.
It is essential for participants to thoroughly review the Competition Document before attending the webinar to ensure they are well-prepared.
Submitting Your Proposal
If you have developed a capability that could protect deployed forces and contribute to the preservation of munitions, you are invited to submit your proposal. For further details and to submit your innovative idea, please refer to the Competition Document. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on national defence through innovative solutions.