The United Kingdom and France have signed a memorandum of understanding to assess the development of a next-generation successor to the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile. The 12-month study will explore advanced missile concepts, identify enabling technologies, and define a roadmap aligned with future threat environments. This initiative falls under the Lancaster House 2.0 framework established in 2025, which aims to deepen bilateral defence industrial cooperation through a joint program office to streamline development, harmonize requirements, and minimize duplication.
In addition to the air-to-air missile effort, the partnership also includes plans to develop a new deep-strike capability to replace the SCALP/Storm Shadow cruise missile currently operated by both nations.
Meteor, the current benchmark BVR missile, features a throttleable solid-fuel ramjet that sustains powered flight throughout much of its engagement envelope. This capability provides one of the largest no-escape zones among operational missiles, significantly enhancing lethality against highly maneuverable targets. Developed under a multinational program led by MBDA with contributions from Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, Meteor was introduced to replace older radar-guided systems that struggled in long-range engagements.
However, advancements in countermeasures and the emergence of long-range systems such as China’s PL-17 have underscored the need for a more advanced successor. The initiative also aligns with global trends, including the US development of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile, aimed at maintaining air superiority in contested environments.
