UKDI Launches £1.85m Competition to Counter Illegal Drone Use

UK Defence & Security Innovation (UKDI) has launched a new themed competition titled “Countering illegal use of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) around prisons and sensitive sites.”

Run on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, the competition aims to identify and support innovative solutions that address the growing threat posed by the illegal use of drones in prisons and other sensitive environments. Up to £1.85 million in funding (excluding VAT) is available, with a number of proposals expected to be funded across two challenge areas.

This competition is delivered on behalf of a broad range of UK security stakeholders, including the Ministry of Justice, His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), the Home Office, UK Police, Innovate UK, the Ministry of Defence (MOD), and the wider UK security community.

The deadline for submissions is Tuesday 31 March 2026 at midday (GMT).