Kinetic Effector RFI · UK public procurement notice

A ‘kinetic effector’ is often referred to as a ‘hard kill’ or ‘hard stop’ solution but could also allow the physical capture and retrieval of a drone. Like other forms of counter-drone effectors, these are used to protect against drone incursions. Various methods capture, entangle or physically disable a drone, preventing it from reaching the intended target or carrying out the intended mission. Because of how they operate, kinetic effectors may be classed as ‘firearms’ and as such the operational use of them is limited. For this RFI, ‘kinetic effectors’ includes ammunition for existing firearms or platforms, as well as bespoke systems such as ‘smart’ weapons sighting systems. Specially designed ammunition may also require use of a firearm by an Authorised Firearms Officer (AFO).

Remotely piloted aircraft, drones or Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are used to carry out a whole host of functions by all sections of the community, including both legitimate and illegal activity. This may include carrying an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), video espionage, privacy violations or transportation of contraband, among others. Kinetic effectors may be used to counter the careless, inconsiderate or criminal use of drones. They can be used as a standalone device or may have an interface to other technologies, such as a detection system.

NPCC Counter Drones coordinates this activity with national equipment and training that is interoperable using ‘mutual aid’ for all Home Office forces. Police Scotland, Police Service of Northern Ireland, Ministry of Defence Police, Civil Nuclear Constabulary, British Transport Police, and the National Crime Agency also accord with the principles set out in the national model that in future will be covered under the College of Policing’s Authorised Professional Practice (Counter Drones) (APP) for the deployment, training and use of counter drones equipment.

The Openworks Skywall 100 system is currently the only kinetic effector available for use by specially trained police officers in the UK.

Note: kinetic effector solutions as described exclude ‘hunter / killer’ type drones or devices that could be attached to drones. This RFI is focussed specifically on ground-based solutions.

The national Counter Drones Strategic Threat and Risk Assessment which will be published annually by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) Counter Drones team is used to inform the position on the need, use and audit of kinetic effectors including the current capacity and capability across the UK. Additional information: Manufacturers who meet the requirements will be invited to trials to demonstrate their technology against a number of indicative real-world scenarios. The objective of these trials will be to refine police Operational Requirements ahead of a further commercial process that seeks to select technologies for placement on a Home Office Framework Contract.