British soldiers are set to receive a new piece of battlefield technology half a decade ahead of schedule, designed to instantly pinpoint the source of enemy fire while keeping troops safer from electronic detection.
The Ministry of Defence has accelerated a contract with defence firm Leonardo UK, worth £18.3 million, to deliver the SONUS acoustic weapon locating system to the British Army. Originally not due for another five years, the system uses advanced acoustic sensors to detect the pressure waves generated by gunfire, mortars, and explosions.
Unlike radar-based systems, SONUS operates completely passively. It does not emit any electronic signals, meaning it cannot be detected by enemy forces who might otherwise track the transmission. This “stealth” capability provides a significant tactical advantage, allowing troops to locate hostile positions without revealing their own.
The system is also a major upgrade in portability. Weighing 70% less than the equipment it replaces, it can be transported more easily and deployed in under three minutes. Once active, it provides soldiers with rapid and accurate data on the direction and distance of incoming fire, enabling quicker evasive maneuvers or more effective counter-attacks.
The new units will be delivered to 5th Regiment Royal Artillery—the Army’s dedicated Surveillance and Target Acquisition regiment—over the next twelve months.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, emphasized that the acceleration was driven by a need to enhance personnel safety in an evolving threat landscape. He also highlighted the economic benefits of the deal, which sustains 250 jobs across the UK, including at Leonardo’s Basildon site, and supports 29 small and medium-sized enterprises.
The procurement is part of a broader government push to modernize the Armed Forces, aligning with the ongoing Strategic Defence Review. It also reflects a drive to reform procurement processes, speeding up the delivery of critical capabilities to the front line. This investment comes alongside the government’s commitment to increase defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, described as the largest sustained boost since the end of the Cold War.
Brigadier M Birch, Senior Responsible Owner for the Land ISTAR Programme, stated that the investment demonstrates the Army’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge technology, significantly enhancing the ability to protect personnel and respond to emerging threats.
Olly Manning, Vice President Mission Systems at Leonardo, noted the company’s 40-year history in passive acoustic technology. He expressed enthusiasm for partnering with the British Army to provide a robust and reliable system designed to keep Armed Forces safe both now and in the future.
