UK to Build Military Testing Facility by 2026

The UK Ministry of Defense has announced the construction of a large 'silent hangar' at the Boscombe Down site to test military equipment against electronic warfare threats, particularly GPS jamming. The facility, built by QinetiQ under a £20 million contract, is expected to open in 2026 and will be one of the largest of its kind in Europe. It will accommodate major military assets like F-35 jets, Chinook helicopters, and Protector drones, enabling the simulation of hostile electromagnetic environments. Defense Procurement Minister Maria Eagle emphasized the need for such a facility due to the increasing prevalence of hostile jamming tactics in modern warfare. The design of the anechoic chamber ensures that testing will not interfere with civilian air traffic and emergency services. This facility aims to enhance the resilience and operational effectiveness of the UK armed forces in the face of evolving electronic threats.