UK eyes new precision strike system

The UK is looking to procure a new medium-range precision strike system to bolster its tactical fires capabilities under project ‘Instigator’.

According to a request for information (RFI) issued by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) on 15 May, this initiative builds on an initial RFI published last year for a “beyond visual line of sight ‘Medium Range Precision Strike’ system for deployed forces”.

While the underlying requirements remain largely the same, the MoD has formally named the programme Instigator and is planning to adopt a more structured spiral acquisition approach to bring the “capability into service at pace and to evolve it through life”.  

The requirements

Looking at the previous RFI requirements published last April, the system must be capable of being launched from both land and sea and operate independently from larger platforms.

The system must provide “consistent, accurate and organic precision fires at all operational engagement ranges” with a minimum 45-minute loiter time, the RFI said. Target profiles include fast inshore attack craft and slow-moving armour at ranges exceeding 80km.

A total budget of GBP120 million was previously allocated for the project, which also required training and support, though it is unclear whether this figure still applies to Instigator.

Spiral acquisition

In the latest RFI, the MoD outlines plans to procure mature off-the-shelf capabilities using a phased, spiral acquisition approach. A minimum deployable capability will be delivered under phase one, after which the system will be evolved iteratively.

This approach was absent from the original RFI, signalling an increased urgency to plug this capability gap. Originally, an in-service date was expected in 2028.

“Insights from industry on how this [phased approach] can be achieved in practice” are essential for the programme and will help shape the future requirement, the MoD said.

Industry is encouraged to submit its response by 29 May.