July 9, 2024

Arceon selected for UK Hypersonic Technologies & Capability Development Framework

By Defence Industry Europe

Industry interested in developing advanced hypersonic missile capabilities have been encouraged to apply for a place on the GBP 1 billion framework announced by UK MOD earlier this year. — Image: DE&S.

Arceon has been selected as a key participant in the UK Hypersonic Strike Capability Development Framework. This transformative initiative, backed by a GBP 1 billion agreement, aims to rapidly advance the UK's hypersonic missile capabilities, marking a significant leap forward in the development of cutting-edge technologies crucial for national defence and international stability.

Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) will play a pivotal role in overcoming one of the most challenging aspects of hypersonic vehicles: maintaining the integrity of aerodynamic components at stagnation temperatures exceeding 2000 degrees Celsius. CMC materials are among the few capable of providing the necessary strength, stiffness, and stability under these extreme conditions, while also withstanding oxidation and thermal shock.

Arceon’s involvement in this groundbreaking framework underscores its leadership in advanced material technologies. The company is poised to contribute significantly to the development of robust solutions that will enhance the performance and durability of hypersonic vehicles. As the global race for hypersonic technology intensifies, Europe’s proactive engagement in this field is crucial for future security.

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on May 13 that the Hypersonic Technologies & Capability Development Framework (HTCDF) includes ninety organizations from across industry and academia. These entities, both large and small, will collaborate under MOD’s Team Hypersonics to bid for contracts and develop advanced hypersonic missile capabilities over the next seven years. The maximum value of the Framework is up to GBP 1 billion.