Anduril Expands to UK with Autonomous Defence Systems
Californian defence tech star Anduril, helmed by VR pioneer Palmer Luckey, is setting its sights on the UK. Founded in 2017, Anduril boasts AI-powered defence systems like anti-drone software and detection equipment, all orchestrated by their Lattice OS. Their ambitions are audacious – aiming to not only double their UK workforce to 80 but even manufacture products there. This aggressive expansion coincides with a global defence boom spurred by conflicts like Ukraine, where drones have become game-changers.
Anduril’s game, however, lies in autonomous systems. Think robots making independent decisions under human guidance, all powered by their AI brain. Their high-tech autonomous air vehicle “Roadrunner,” resembling a fighter jet, exemplifies this focus, designed to intercept aerial threats – drones or even manned aircraft – at near-sonic speeds.
This isn’t just bravado. Anduril’s £1.2 billion Series E funding and £17 million MoD contract for Royal Air Force and Strategic Command tech development speak volumes. By doubling down on the UK, Anduril is making a strategic move to carve a niche in the evolving defense landscape, one powered by autonomous tech and cutting-edge products like Roadrunner. The question remains: Can they break into the top tier dominated by giants like Lockheed Martin and Boeing? Only time will tell, but Anduril’s ambitious UK expansion is certainly a bold step in that direction.
Atkins Realis Secures Prime Contractor Role for Cybersecurity in £1.2bn UK Ministry of Defence DIPS Framework
Atkins Realis has been appointed a prime contractor for cybersecurity services under the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Defence and IT Professional Services (DIPS) Framework. The four-year framework, part of the MoD’s Digital Strategy of Defence, aims to provide IT specialist services and accelerate digital transformation for the UK Armed Forces.
Atkins Realis will cover three lots related to solution architecture, cyber security, and project management, and will also serve as a subcontracting partner for two lots involving system design and intelligence services. The DIPS Framework, involving 17 suppliers across six lots, has a potential value of up to £1.2 billion. The move aligns with the global growth projection of cybersecurity revenues, set to reach $198 billion by 2025, with a focus on security intelligence and management.
Dave Clark, Atkins Realis Market Director for Aerospace and Defence highlighted that the framework would provide the MoD with essential expertise to modernize its digital landscape swiftly and capitalize on emerging technologies collaboratively. The relationship between Atkins Realis and the MoD has previously included contracts under projects such as the £40 million deal for Defence Digital’s Design as a Service (DaaS) framework and orders worth £1.5 billion over five years under the MoD’s Engineering Delivery Partnership.
BAE Systems Signs Agreement with U.S. Army for M777 Howitzer Major Structures
British defence company BAE Systems PLC has inked a deal with the U.S. Army to produce M777 lightweight howitzer major structures.
The agreement, operating under an Definitized Contract Action (UCA) with a current limit of $50 million, will see BAE Systems collaborating with its supply chain in the U.K. and the U.S. to manufacture M777 titanium structures, the foundational components of the gun. The resurgence of interest in the M777 gun system, particularly from Europe, Asia, and the Americas, has created an opportunity for a restart of M777 production in the U.K. against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where M777 howitzers are deployed.
John Borton, Vice President and General Manager of BAE Systems Weapons Systems UK, highlighted the critical timing of the production restart. The M777 howitzer, known for its battlefield effectiveness, is gaining renewed attention, with BAE Systems anticipating future contracts for complete M777 guns as inquiries from more than eight countries have surged since the conflict in Ukraine began. Despite the need for towing into position, the M777 is favoured for its reliability, user-friendly design, and straightforward repair process compared to more agile self-propelled howitzers. BAE Systems envisions the M777 remaining at the forefront of artillery technology, incorporating technical advancements, long-range precision guided munitions, and flexible mobility options.
Hope you all had a great Christmas! All the best for a successful 2024!