The UK could soon obtain a unique, integrated counter-drone solution that allows military forces to take down drones through a variety of kinetic and non-kinetic options.
Developed by a team of engineers at BAE Systems, the BAE Systems Anti-Threat System (BATS) is built to detect threats early and suggest appropriate responses, ranging from electronic warfare tools to kinetic solutions.
At its core, BATS is envisioned as a software-driven command-and-control engine that “identifies and defeats uncrewed threats as fast as they evolve.”
The system is also positioned as a cost-conscious alternative to traditional missile-based defenses, with the goal of protecting borders, military assets, and high-density civilian areas.
BAE Systems began work on the tech in October 2025, with initial testing expected next month, followed by live-fire trials scheduled for summer 2026.
“Drone incursions are a clear and present issue, putting citizens, military personnel, and infrastructure at risk,” Andrea Thompson, group managing director of BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, said.
“The technology evolves faster than traditional defense systems can respond, with new behaviors, payloads, and tactics emerging almost daily. That’s why we’re moving at pace to build a new system to support our customers in their efforts against this very urgent problem.”
Detection to Decision
BATS springs into action once it detects incoming drone threats through its network of sensors.
It then assesses the threat level before recommending potential response options, whether soft kill or hard kill, while keeping human operators involved throughout the process.
The system records relevant data in secure storage, allowing commanders to review, verify, and analyze engagements after they occur.
Designed with an open architecture, BATS is intended to allow allied partners to integrate a range of existing and future technologies across different domains into a single system.
