UK Hypersonic Missile Development: Lockheed Martin’s Strategic Shift

UK Hypersonic Missile Development is taking a significant turn as Lockheed Martin, a leading US defence contractor, indicates its readiness to prioritize the UK for the development of a new jet-fired hypersonic missile. This move could see advanced weaponry research and production take place in the UK before it’s done in the US, reflecting a shift in global defence strategies.

The Mako Missile Prototype

At the heart of this development is the Mako missile, a prototype that has garnered attention for its speed and versatility. Named after the fastest shark in the seas, the Mako is designed to reach speeds exceeding Mach 5, making it a formidable asset in modern warfare. The missile can be launched from advanced fighters like the F-35 stealth jet, used by the Royal Navy. Its capabilities include air-to-sea strikes, anti-air defence, and air-to-ground operations, showcasing its multi-mission potential.

Aukus Agreement and Technology Sharing

The decision to consider the UK as a primary location for this missile’s development is largely influenced by the Aukus agreement, a trilateral security pact between the UK, US, and Australia. This agreement facilitates technology sharing and collaboration in cutting-edge areas such as hypersonic weapons and quantum computing. Under this framework, Lockheed Martin sees the opportunity to work closely with the UK, leveraging its technological capabilities to advance hypersonic missile development.

Tim Cahill, Lockheed Martin’s president for missiles and fire control, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. Speaking at the Farnborough International Airshow, Cahill noted that the UK’s involvement could be a game-changer. He emphasized that the Mako missile, with its advanced range and speed, could greatly benefit from British expertise and investment. According to Cahill, this collaboration would allow the UK to play a key role in developing this advanced technology, enhancing its defence capabilities while sharing the burden of development costs.

The UK’s Defence Review and Hypersonic Goals

The UK government is currently undertaking a major defence review to identify which capabilities should be prioritized and which might be reduced. As part of this review, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) aims to establish a sovereign hypersonic missile capability by 2030. To achieve this goal, the MoD is working with around 90 companies to evaluate various options and designs.

Cahill’s comments suggest that the UK should focus on addressing gaps in its current defence capabilities. Lockheed Martin is prepared to partner with British companies to develop a hypersonic missile similar to the Mako, providing a practical and advanced solution for the UK’s defence needs. By collaborating with Lockheed Martin, the UK can benefit from years of design work and expertise, potentially accelerating its progress towards achieving its hypersonic missile objectives.

The Impact of the Aukus Agreement

The Aukus agreement, initially designed to enhance cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines, has expanded to cover a range of advanced technologies. The “pillar 2” of the deal focuses on sharing technology in areas like hypersonic weapons and quantum computing. This aspect of the agreement is crucial in addressing emerging threats and maintaining technological superiority in the global defence landscape.

Hypersonic missiles are a prime example of the advanced technology covered under the Aukus agreement. These missiles travel at speeds greater than 4,000 miles per hour and can maneuver mid-flight, making them difficult to intercept by conventional air defences. The US has already tested some hypersonic missiles to stay ahead of competitors like Russia and China, both of which claim to have developed similar technologies.

The MoD’s National Mission

To achieve its hypersonic missile goals, the MoD has launched a consortium of around 80 companies to explore potential designs and solutions. This project is managed directly by MoD headquarters, rather than by one of the three armed services, reflecting its importance as a “national mission.” With a tight deadline of 2030, there is a growing likelihood that the MoD will seek partnerships with established companies like Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin’s Mako missile, which has been under development for seven years, represents a significant investment in advanced missile technology. Despite receiving funding from the US Air Force, the Mako has not yet been ordered by the Pentagon, losing out to a rival in the US Stand-In Attack Weapon (SiAW) programme. This programme aimed to develop an air-launched weapon to counter various threats, including air defence systems and anti-ship missiles.

Conclusion: A Strategic Opportunity

UK Hypersonic Missile Development represents a strategic opportunity for the UK to enhance its defence capabilities while benefiting from international collaboration. Lockheed Martin’s willingness to prioritize the UK for this advanced missile project highlights the evolving nature of global defence partnerships. By leveraging the Aukus agreement and partnering with Lockheed Martin, the UK can advance its hypersonic missile capabilities, ensuring it remains at the forefront of modern military technology.

ALSO READ:

“French Troops in Ukraine: 2,000 Troops Face Imminent Threats”