UK launches HADeS competition to enhance airport security with £500k in funding for innovators

Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s innovation hub for cities, transport, and urban development, has opened applications for its new High Assurance Detection Systems (HADeS) competition. In collaboration with the Department for Transport (DfT), the initiative aims to identify cutting-edge technologies that can improve the resolution of alarms and enhance the overall security screening process at UK airports. Through this competition, up to £500k in funding will be made available to innovators, provided through a Grant Funding Agreement with the DfT, to help accelerate advancements in airport checkpoint security.

 Erika Lewis, Chief Executive at Connected Places Catapult, said: “This competition seeks to further develop a resilient and efficient security ecosystem, ensuring that UK airports are equipped to detect and deter future threats while maintaining efficient operations.

“If you have a solution that could help upgrade current security systems or deliver the next generation of checkpoints, I encourage you to apply.”

Applications are welcomed across two tracks, which correspond to a solution’s technology readiness level (TRL).

How will the competition work?

• Track 1 – Emerging Security Innovations (TRL 2-3)

Grants of up to £45k are available for emerging security innovations at the early stages of development. In this track, the programme team is looking for long-term solutions for airport security detection systems, including concepts which offer the checkpoint of the future, post ‘Next Generation Security Checkpoint’ (NGSC), such as integrated primary and secondary screening.

• Track 2 – Evolving Security Innovations (TRL 4-5)

Grants of £80k are available for evolving security innovations that are more developed. In this track, proposals should focus on medium term solutions, such as those that can be further developed to become part of any potential NGSC mid-life upgrade.

• Expressions of interest (TRL 6+)

In addition, there is an opportunity for innovators with solutions developed beyond TRL 5 to express an interest for support for innovative concepts that offer nearer term solutions. These could include enhancements to current NGSC equipment, providing an increased ability for threat detection. Attractive propositions will be considered by DfT separately.

Across tracks 1 and 2, up to eight projects will be selected to develop their ideas during a 6-month programme. Alongside grant funding, the programme will provide tailored business support workshops delivered by experts at the Catapult in collaboration with DfT. It is envisaged that successful projects could lead to future live demonstrations, create new market opportunities and stimulate economic growth.

Aviation, Maritime & Security Minister, Mike Kane said:

“The safety of passengers is our top priority, and that’s why we’re investing in competitions like this, to support innovators to develop the robust screening technology needed for the future.

“Working with the Connected Places Catapult, we intend to strengthen UK airport security even further, so that we can all continue to travel with peace of mind.”