OCCAR Successfully Launches HYDIS Programme to Tackle Hypersonic Threats

The Hypersonic Defence Interceptor System (HYDIS) programme took a significant step forward with its first workshop held on June 28 at MBDA in Paris. This workshop marked a milestone in the programme's development and followed the Kick-Off meeting on June 14, 2024. The event gathered technical experts from participating states and industry leaders to foster a collaborative discussion aimed at advancing the programme.

The workshop's main goals were to establish a shared understanding of operational scenarios for the future interceptor and to set and prioritize key evaluation criteria for selecting the most promising missile interception solutions. By the end of the workshop, these objectives were met, demonstrating the strong commitment of all contributing nations and industry partners to this EU co-funded initiative.

HYDIS, co-funded by the European Union under the European Defence Fund, includes participation from France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. The European Commission has entrusted OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation) with the indirect management of the programme, acting as the Contracting Authority on behalf of the EU and the member states.

Launched under the TWISTER (Timely Warning and Interception with Space-based Theatre Surveillance) PESCO initiative, HYDIS represents a collaborative European response to the urgent need for advanced interception solutions. The programme benefits from extensive cooperation between the EU, industry, and government. It includes 19 partners and over 30 subcontractors from 14 European countries, with funding from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the EU Defence Fund.

Over the next three years, the HYDIS programme will focus on studying, maturing, and selecting an effective interceptor concept or family of concepts to counter hypersonic threats. The main areas of focus include selecting the most suitable interceptor concept and weapon systems architecture, maturing the necessary technologies for implementation, and establishing the industrial network needed to develop future counter-hypersonic missile systems.

This programme not only enhances European resilience and technological sovereignty in the anti-missile domain but also promotes cooperation and interoperability among EU countries and industry partners. The successful initial workshop sets a promising tone for the future of the HYDIS programme, reinforcing the commitment to developing a robust and effective hypersonic defence system for Europe.