This new notice outlines the specifics for vendor participation, emphasising a collaborative approach and the provision of key government-furnished items, clarifying the MOD’s goals for the development of this critical capability.
This update builds on previous efforts to develop a long-range strike system capable of delivering precision attacks over distances greater than 500km, with an emphasis on rapid deployment and operational flexibility.
According to the tender, the MOD seeks proposals from suppliers who can meet the rapid capability requirements and take an agile approach. The project intends to address the current lack of delivery-ready platforms in the market, prioritising the development of systems that meet or exceed the MOD’s outlined specifications.
One notable detail is that “the payload, casing, fusing/initiation device, test range, and Government SME advice will be provided as GFX by the Authority” to aid in the development. However, the MOD has stated that vendor-proposed payloads will also be considered. This opens the door for industry collaboration and innovation, offering flexibility in how the final system will be developed.
The ground-based launch vehicle will also be provided, but the MOD is leaving room for consortia of companies to work together to deliver a full OWE Heavy integration system, recognising that a complete solution may not currently exist with a single supplier. “The Authority recognises that a full OWE Heavy integration system may not currently exist with a single supplier”, the notice explains.
As part of this rapid capability requirement, there is a strong focus on “speed of relevance”—highlighting the MOD’s intent to move quickly from the development phase to operational use. The MOD plans to host a bidders’ conference on November 14, 2024, where further details will be provided to interested parties.
This tender notice reinforces the MOD’s commitment to rapidly enhancing its long-range strike capabilities in response to evolving military needs. With a deadline for proposals set for January 5, 2025, Project Brakestop is poised to significantly boost the UK’s operational capabilities in high-threat environments.
So is this like a variant of loyal wingman but without the need for a manned host ship?
Zelensky will be very happy.
Any takers for Ground Launched ER Stormshadow?
This was only announced last month, wasn’t it? so we are getting some relatively speedy progression. IIRC we are looking at production by this time next year and this is a “cheap” and cheerful, sub half-million per unit, cobble-it-together requirement, presumably for Ukraine.
I read this as meaning a long-ish range strike/cruise missile. I may be missing something, as others see it as a UAV attack drone. Which is it?
Both are needed urgently, but a long range, ground-launched strike missile looks like top priority, going by the Ukraine battlefield effects.
Calling it a one-way effector rather than a missile deliberately leaves the exact technology open.