The Royal Navy’s Type 45 destroyer HMS Dauntless has been photographed carrying two previously unseen launcher units that may form part of a shipborne counter-uncrewed-aircraft system. The box-like equipment was mounted on either side of the destroyer’s main communications mast during a passing exercise with five Ukrainian minehunters off the Isle of Wight on 10 October. Its identity, supplier and operational status remain unconfirmed.
The units appear to be compact, multi-cell vertical launchers arranged in paired containers, each estimated at about 2 metres long and 1 metre high. Their configuration has prompted speculation that they could launch interceptor drones, although an electronic-warfare role has not been entirely excluded. No dedicated sensor has been identified, leaving the system’s integration with Dauntless’ Sampson multifunction radar, S1850M long-range radar or electro-optical sensors unclear.
The equipment was reportedly installed in August, before Dauntless completed operational sea training in September. That training included Exercise Sharpshooter, involving live firing against aerial and surface drone targets off Aberporth in Wales. The destroyer is preparing to escort the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales during a High North deployment.
The apparent fit follows a Royal Navy Project TALON request for information issued in March for a mature counter-drone capability requiring little or no ship integration. The requirement covered NATO Class 2 drones, including Shahed-type systems, and called for engagement of at least 25 targets before reloading, with 100 preferred. The Royal Navy has not confirmed any connection between TALON and HMS Dauntless’ launchers.