UK to work with European allies to develop air defence weapons

The UK will work with European allies to develop new air defence weapons to protect European skies.

The European Group of Five meeting was hosted in Krakow on Friday 20 February, with France, Germany, Italy and Poland attending.

The group have launched the ‘Low-Cost Effectors & Autonomous Platforms’ initiative, known as LEAP.

The initiative will see the development of advanced low-cost air defence systems, such as autonomous drones or missiles. The first project is expected to be delivered by 2027.

The first focus will be on a new surface-to-air weapon – a lightweight, affordable weapon designed to counter the drone and missile threat. 

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said: "European security is at a pivotal moment. The UK and our E5 partners are stepping up – investing together in the next generation of air defence and autonomous systems to strengthen NATO’s shield and keep our people safe. 

"From innovation in our defence industries to our ironclad commitment to Ukraine, we’re showing that European nations are ready to deter, defend and if necessary, fight, together.  “I’m proud of UK leadership on European security – building partnerships, developing capability and standing with Ukraine to protect our shared security."