The state-of-the-art ‘silent hangar’ is designed to be large enough to accommodate some of the UK’s most formidable military platforms, including Protector drones, Chinook helicopters, and F-35 fighter jets. This marks a significant upgrade from existing UK facilities, offering a far greater capacity and the ability to conduct comprehensive testing of military equipment in simulated hostile electromagnetic environments.
The anechoic hangar will create an environment devoid of reflections and echoes, essential for testing the integrity of the UK’s military equipment under conditions that mimic real-world threats. This facility will be crucial in ensuring that military assets can withstand attempts to jam or confuse GPS systems, which have become a common tactic in modern electronic warfare. The GPS simulators and threat emulators within the chamber will allow for the recreation of various hostile scenarios, ensuring that the UK’s military equipment is tested rigorously against potential vulnerabilities.
Maria Eagle, the Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, highlighted the growing menace of GPS jamming, stating, “Hostile threats jamming GPS to disorientate military equipment has become increasingly common. This cutting-edge test facility will help us eliminate vulnerabilities from our platforms, protect our national security, and keep our Armed Forces better protected on global deployments.”
The facility is also expected to bring significant economic benefits to the local area around Boscombe Down, creating new roles and enhancing the UK’s pool of electromagnetic expertise and skilled technical jobs over the next two years. Additionally, it will offer a range of opportunities beyond the defence sector, potentially benefiting wider government, industry, and critical national infrastructure.
Will Blamey, Chief Executive of UK Defence at QinetiQ, emphasized the importance of the facility in the context of modern warfare. “On an increasingly digital battlefield, the debilitating effects of electronic warfare are a persistent threat. The testing we will conduct using this new facility will be integral to strengthening the resilience of military equipment, which in turn enhances the safety and security of our Armed Forces and the United Kingdom.”
Richard Bloomfield, Head of Electronic Warfare (CBRN) Space at Defence Equipment & Support, underscored the strategic importance of the new facility. “The subject of GPS jamming has been well documented in the press, making this new facility all the more vital to help us keep our armed forces safe while protecting the nation and our allies.”
Once operational, the facility will stand as one of the most advanced of its kind globally, providing the UK with unparalleled capabilities to test and improve the resilience of its military equipment against the sophisticated and evolving threats of electronic warfare.