The UK and US Armies have launched Project VANAHEIM, a cutting-edge initiative aimed at enhancing Counter-Uncrewed Air Systems (C-UAS) capabilities. The project focuses on detecting, tracking, identifying, and neutralising Class 1 Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) threats, in response to the rapid evolution of small drone technology.
Project VANAHEIM is a collaborative effort between the British and US Armies, with the Ukrainian Army also participating and the Australian Army observing. According to the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD), it represents the first phase of a comprehensive programme designed to update the Army’s C-UAS capabilities to meet modern security challenges.
The initiative will see participating companies showcase their solutions in a dynamic, field-based test environment. The first of these events will take place in Germany in June 2025, followed by additional tests in July and August. The MOD has emphasized that this is not just an industry event, but a hands-on opportunity for companies to deploy their technology alongside military personnel in real operational settings.
Companies participating in Project VANAHEIM will be required to provide portable solutions that can be used by general soldiers, either on foot or via light vehicles, and capable of countering Class 1 b/c UAS, including first-person view drones. Solutions should also be adaptable for integration with Battlespace Management Applications, ideally in line with Generic Vehicle Architecture and SAPIENT standards.
Project VANAHEIM will offer companies the chance to test their technologies under real battlefield conditions, receive direct feedback from military personnel, and contribute to shaping the future of C-UAS technology in the British Army.
The MOD is calling on forward-thinking companies with innovative solutions to help address some of the most urgent C-UAS challenges, and shape the future of the Army’s rapid capability development.
The project is being led by the British Army’s RAPSTONE Task Force based in Andover.
