HMGCC Co-Creation Challenge: Novel counter drone and ground station solutions

Summary of the challenge

Counter drone technology is evolving rapidly. As drone threats develop, countermeasures adapt in response, creating a continuous cycle of innovation.

HMGCC Co-Creation is launching a challenge in collaboration with jHub, the central innovation hub for UK Defence’s Cyber & Specialist Operations Command, and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ).

This challenge has two distinct, but related workstreams. Solution providers are invited to apply for workstream one, two, or both:

One: jHub require detection and disruption of drone ground control stations, which could be controlling single or swarms of enemy drones.

Two: MoJ need to detect drones commanded over cellular networks via in-built SIM cards in a civilian scenario.

For full details of each workstream, please read the full challenge document at the HMGCC Co-Creation site.

HMGCC Co-Creation will provide funding for time, materials, overheads and other indirect expenses for successful applicants.

Context

The threat from drones is frequently seen in the media, as adversaries continue to leverage this technology to do the UK and its allies harm and conduct criminal activity.

Sectors

Aerospace, Data science and engineering, Electronic engineering, Machine Learning, Physical security, Radio Frequency science and engineering, Radio systems, Robotic & Autonomous Systems, Systems engineering, Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles

A briefing call will be held on Tuesday 18 November 2025 at 11am. Click here to register for the briefing call. (Please note: Recording or use of AI notetakers is not permitted.)