Crosshill Ltd is participating as a subcontractor in the HYDIS² (Hypersonic Defence Interceptor System) project, which is led by European defence equipment manufacturer MBDA, funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF) and -four Participating States (FR, DE, IT and NL), and managed by OCCAR (the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation). The purpose of the research project is to find the best architecture and technology concept for a hypersonic interceptor. In addition to MBDA, the consortium of companies assembled for the project includes 19 partners and over 20 subcontractors from 14 European countries.
Crosshill’s role is to evaluate quantum-safe electronics and create recommendations for the next phase of the HYDIS², as well as to develop datalink demonstrator implementing quantum-safe communication protocols and encryption algorithms between the ground station and the interceptor. The current e-project phase is scheduled for completion in 2027.
The overall objective of the project, which started in May 2024, is to study several different interceptor concepts and further develop the critical technologies in order to find the best solution against current and emerging hypersonic and ballistic missile threats within the atmosphere. HYDIS2 Consortium is highly committed to develop this key capability and providing a roadmap to the future high-end product for the protection of the EU territory and forces. This interceptor, named AQUILA, will complement, as a first-class element, the already existent MBDA portfolio in the area defence domain.
The European Hypersonic Defence Interceptor System” (HYDIS) is a project co-funded by the European Union, under the European Defence Fund, and by four Participating States (PSs) which are France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands. OCCAR has been entrusted by the European Commission (EC) for the indirect management of the action by the signature of a Contribution Agreement. OCCAR, as Contracting Authority, has concluded a contract with the HYDIS consortium to implement the programme, on behalf of EU and the Member States.