The UK Ministry of Defence has strengthened its counter-drone capabilities by awarding a contract to Cambridge Aerospace for the production and delivery of the Skyhammer interceptor system. This jet-powered solution is designed to neutralize drones and slow-moving missiles, addressing one of the most pressing challenges in modern air defense. The contract includes full system delivery, integration, technical assistance, and training, with deployment set to begin in May and continue over the following six months. Skyhammer’s development timeline has been notably rapid, with flight tests conducted within weeks of program initiation in 2025, followed by consistent testing cycles to ensure reliability across multiple combat scenarios. The system’s tube-launched configuration allows rapid deployment, while its retractable wings and inverted V-tail enhance stability and maneuverability in flight. Powered by a jet propulsion system, it achieves speeds of up to 700 km/h and offers an engagement range of around 30 kilometers. A key feature is its onboard radar seeker, enabling autonomous guidance and target lock-on during the final engagement phase. Designed for integration into layered air defense architectures, Skyhammer complements existing systems and improves response capability against low-cost aerial threats. The program is expected to generate employment opportunities and support the UK’s defense industrial base. In parallel, the UK is considering additional procurement of the Martlet missile to further strengthen defenses against drone threats in operational theaters such as the Middle East.
