The United Kingdom and France have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly explore the development of a successor to the Meteor missile. Conducted under the Lancaster House 2.0 framework, the 12-month study will evaluate emerging technologies, define new missile concepts, and establish a roadmap aligned with evolving threat scenarios. The Meteor missile, developed by MBDA in collaboration with partners like Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, is known for its ramjet propulsion and extensive no-escape zone. However, advancements in adversary systems such as China’s PL-17 have necessitated a next-generation solution. The collaboration also includes plans for a deep-strike missile to replace SCALP/Storm Shadow, reinforcing bilateral defense integration.
