Urgent Call: Shape Future C-UAS with UK-US Project VANAHEIM
Project VANAHEIM is an initiative designed to enhance military Counter-Uncrewed Air Systems (C-UAS) capabilities. This project aims to address a critical operational question:
How can tactical units be organized and equipped to effectively detect, track, identify, and neutralize Class 1 Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) threats?
This collaborative effort involves the British and United States Armies, forming the initial phase of a comprehensive program to modernize the Army’s C-UAS capabilities in response to the rapid advancement of Small UAS technology over recent years. The British Army aims to spot viable C-UAS solutions and technology partners through VANAHEIM, ultimately preparing to deploy next-generation C-UAS capabilities.
Why Participate in VANAHEIM?
VANAHEIM presents a unique chance to work alongside the British Army and UK Defence in an experimental field event. Unlike standard industry gatherings, this initiative offers a dynamic testing environment where participants can showcase their solutions and collaborate directly with Army personnel to influence their requirements and develop potential solutions.
The event is scheduled over several days in Germany in June 2025, with additional events planned for July and August. Participation from the US Army and Ukrainian Armies is confirmed, while the Australian Army will observe the proceedings.
Target Capabilities and Requirements
The solutions sought must be user-friendly for generalist soldiers, portable enough to be carried by personnel or light vehicles, and specifically designed to counter Class 1 b/c UAS, such as first-person view drones.
Furthermore, solutions should ideally conform to Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) and be SAPIENT compliant, allowing for seamless integration with Battlespace Management Applications.
Benefits of VANAHEIM Engagement
- Hands-on Testing: Participants can deploy their TRL6-TRL9 products in an authentic operational setting, gaining critical performance data to refine their technologies.
- Direct Feedback: Collaborate with military personnel on-site to receive immediate insights that will inform future product development.
- Shape the Future: Contributions to VANAHEIM will directly impact the British Army’s approach to addressing pressing C-UAS challenges, influencing rapid capability development.
The VANAHEIM initiative is specifically looking for innovative companies and visionary approaches ready to advance C-UAS technology within all Defence channels. This is your chance to accelerate technological advancements, forge strategic partnerships, and play a role in a vital mission.
An engagement day hosted by the Joint Counter-UAS Office will occur at RAF High Wycombe on March 31. Project VANAHEIM is overseen by the British Army’s RAPSTONE Task Force, based in Andover.
Contract Details
The estimated total value of the project is £0 excluding VAT, with anticipated contract dates from April 30, 2025, to April 30, 2027, spanning a period of two years and one day.
Engagement Information
Interested parties must submit their capability details, including technical specifications where appropriate, by 23:59 on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Submissions should be sent via email to [email protected] with the subject line “VANAHEIM RFI Response.”
Participation Guidelines
Particular emphasis is placed on small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs).
Contract Authority
The project is managed by the Ministry of Defence in the UK, with a public procurement organization number of PHVX-4316-ZVGZ. For further inquiries, contact Sarah Hammond via email at [email protected].
For more information about the UK’s Ministry of Defence, please visit the official website: Ministry of Defence.
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