The United Kingdom has decided to move beyond upgrading its current Meteor beyond-visual-range missile, opting instead to develop a completely new air-to-air weapon capable of addressing future aerial threats. The initiative will be carried out through the Future Air Superiority Effectors (FASE) programme, which is focused on equipping next-generation crewed fighters and autonomous combat aircraft with advanced long-range weapons. While the Meteor remains one of the world’s most capable ramjet-powered missiles and continues to receive software enhancements, rapidly advancing electronic warfare systems and emerging long-range adversary missiles have highlighted the need for a fundamentally new design. Working alongside France, the UK has begun studying advanced propulsion technologies, smarter guidance systems, improved networking capabilities, and future missile architectures that can dominate increasingly contested airspace. This programme is expected to shape Europe’s next generation of air combat capability and ensure compatibility with sixth-generation fighter programmes.
