The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded a multi-million-pound contract to Cambridge Aerospace for the delivery of its jet-powered Skyhammer drone and missile interceptor system to the UK Armed Forces and select Gulf partners. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in May and continue over a six-month period, with the contract covering launchers, interceptors, integration, technical support, and training for operators. Skyhammer represents the company’s first operational system and is designed specifically to counter drones and slow-moving aerial threats in modern combat environments. Development of the system began in early 2025, with initial flight testing completed in just six weeks, followed by continuous weekly trials to refine performance across varied operational conditions. The system is tube-launched and features retractable wings and an inverted V-tail configuration, enabling enhanced maneuverability and aerodynamic efficiency. Powered by a jet engine, Skyhammer can reach speeds of up to 700 km/h and engage targets at ranges of approximately 30 kilometers. It is equipped with a miniaturized onboard radar seeker that allows autonomous target acquisition and engagement during terminal phases. The system is designed for integration into layered air defense networks, enhancing overall protection against evolving aerial threats. Although pricing details remain undisclosed, it is estimated to be comparable to the cost of a Shahed drone and more affordable than the Martlet missile. The program is also expected to create new jobs and sustain existing positions within the UK defense sector, while supporting broader efforts to counter drone threats in regions such as the Middle East.
