Advances in Modular Integration Protection System (MIPS) at FAVS 2025

Overview of Testing Activities

At the Future Armoured Vehicles Survivability (FAVS) 2025 conference held in London from November 17 to 19, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) presented significant insights regarding the Modular Integration Protection System (MIPS). Leonardo exhibited footage at their booth showcasing MIPS sensor evaluations conducted on a Blackjax armored vehicle against dummy rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These trials took place at the UK Ministry of Defence’s Shoeburyness test range in Essex during July.

Details of the Testing Protocol

Tom Newbery, the Platform Survivability Group lead at Dstl’s Platform Systems Division, explained that the tests incorporated a 40 mm cased telescopic ammunition (CTA) cannon mounted on the Blackjax vehicle. Although the cannon remained unfired during these evaluations, Newbery emphasized that the specific turret system employed is not central to the MIPS framework. Future testing phases scheduled for 2026 will involve live-fire exercises targeting various platforms, including a first-person view (FPV) UAV.

MIPS Architecture and Capabilities

Newbery characterized MIPS as a comprehensive, multilayer defense architecture designed for next-generation integrated survivability systems. This versatile solution aims to safeguard vehicles against:

• FPVs
• UAVs
• Anti-tank guided missiles
• Both guided and unguided artillery munitions

MIPS also addresses vulnerabilities to electromagnetic threats. Additionally, Newbery suggested that the generic architecture could extend protection capabilities to fixed infrastructure and dismounted personnel. MIPS aligns with NATO Standardization Agreement (STANAG) 4822, which outlines architectures for land-based defensive aid systems. Under a contract initiated in 2022, MIPS is progressing toward achieving a technical readiness level (TRL) 7, reflecting a commitment to advanced military capabilities.

Collaborative Development Efforts

The consortium working on the MIPS project, known as Team Minerva, is spearheaded by Leonardo and includes notable industry players such as:

• QinetiQ
• General Dynamics Land Systems
• Roke
• Thales
• CGI
• Ultra Electronics
• Frazer-Nash

This collaboration aims to enhance the technology’s effectiveness and integration within military operations.

For further analysis and updates from the conference, additional details are available on related advancements, including the deployment of the Boxer vehicle equipped with the Leopard 2 Trophy active protection system (APS).

Expand your understanding of these developments by accessing detailed reports on military capabilities and equipment insights.