MoD wants new rapid-launch weapons system to launch from fleet of vans

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is investigating a new rapid-launch drone system which it wants to be housed in a fleet of vans.

According to the UK Defence Journal, the Government department is seeking industry input for the new weapons system under “Project Volley”, aiming to field multiple mobile launchers in vans capable of deploying five drones in under four minutes with each drone launched at one-minute intervals.

Described in a newly published Prior Information Notice, the MoD suggests the system should be suitable for deployment from vehicles such as a “large body (Mercedes-Benz) Sprinter” or a “regular (Ford) Transit van”

First deliveries of the new weapons system are expected by the beginning of next year (2026).

The notice adds that each production launcher must be priced under £300,000 and “be produceable at scale”.