The UK is leading an effort to give Europe the ability to strike targets farther away, potentially expanding the long-range capabilities available to allied forces across the continent.
Known as Deep Precision Strike, the initiative aims to develop a capability that can engage targets up to 2,000 kilometers (1,248 miles) away with pinpoint accuracy, while maintaining the ability to strike targets at ranges of at least 300 kilometers (186 miles).
Backed by 10 other European countries, the program is expected to cost more than $50 billion over the next decade.
The investment is intended to “deliver the most advanced weapons NATO will have at its disposal in the future” and strengthen the alliance’s defense and deterrence capabilities.
“This UK-led initiative will allow us to step up our cooperation, bringing European allies together to ensure NATO remains safe and secure for years to come,” said UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“We must continue to work together as allies to develop the capability of the future to bolster security and protect growth at home.”
The Trinity House Project
The UK’s latest effort builds on its Trinity House agreement with Germany, which focuses on developing stealth and hypersonic weapons with ranges beyond 2,000 kilometers (1,248 miles).
Expected to enter service in the 2030s, the systems are described by the UK as among the most advanced capabilities ever developed on home soil.
While Trinity House initially focuses on ground-launched systems, the program is expected to expand into air and naval domains to improve operational flexibility.
The UK is reportedly investing 770 million pound sterling ($1 billion) in Trinity House over the next four years.
