A team of UK-based engineers is developing a new approach to counter hostile drones. The project is funded and led by BAE Systems, the country’s largest defence company, which is drawing on its extensive software expertise to deliver a cost-effective solution within months. The aim is to address the growing threat drones pose to civilian and military infrastructure.
The BAE Systems Anti-Threat System (BATS) is designed to reduce reliance on expensive missile-based responses. Instead, it combines advanced software, electronic warfare and kinetic measures to counter increasing drone incursions targeting national borders, military assets, airports and urban areas.
Development began in October 2025, with system testing expected as early as next month and live-fire trials planned for early summer. This rapid timeline reflects the urgency of evolving threats and customer demand.
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Andrea Thompson, Group Managing Director at BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business, said drone incursions present a serious and fast-changing risk. She noted that drone technologies and tactics evolve faster than traditional defence systems can respond, requiring a more agile and adaptive solution.
BATS is a scalable, software-driven system featuring a command-and-control decision engine that enables users to detect, identify and counter unmanned threats in real time. Its open architecture allows integration of current and future sensors and effectors across multiple domains.
By fusing data from layered sensors, BATS can identify and classify threats early, enabling rapid, informed responses in line with legislation and rules of engagement.
Source: BAE Systems