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The UK is inviting partners to collaborate on the COOKSON universal maritime drone, a small, fast assault vessel designed for modular payloads and multi-mission use in challenging conditions.
The system will operate autonomously or semi-autonomously, delivering payloads, completing missions, and returning for rearmament and maintenance. Key requirements include:
- Speed: Over 40 knots (74 km/h)
- Range: 1,500 km with a minimum endurance of 72 hours
- Payload: Multiple high-explosive warheads (range: 30–100 km)
- Defense: Capability to mount air defense modules
- Design: Low-profile silhouette
The UK Ministry of Defense plans to procure the first 10 COOKSON systems and hundreds of effectors in early 2025. The competitive selection will fund 2–5 proposals for demonstrations by late 2025 or early 2026.
This project is part of the UK’s leadership in the Maritime Forces and Capabilities Coalition with Norway, aiming to enhance Ukraine’s operational capabilities. Industry representatives must register by January 16, 2025, to join the development session.
