Chess Dynamics secures Hawkeye contract

Land January 7, 2026

Chess Dynamics, a subsidiary of the Cohort plc Group, has secured a £1.4 million contract from a major weapon system prime contractor to supply Hawkeye Electro-Optical Surveillance Systems (EOSS).

The agreement, announced in January 2026, will see the advanced targeting technology integrated into mobile air defence units, addressing a critical requirement for high-performance sensing in increasingly agile operational environments. This contract highlights the continued evolution of the UK’s air defence capabilities and the growing reliance on sophisticated electro-optical systems to counter airborne threats.

The Hawkeye EOSS is engineered to provide long-range detection, identification, and tracking through a combination of high-resolution optical and thermal imaging sensors. A core component of the system is the integration of Chess Dynamics’ DEFT AI-enhanced tracking algorithms, which ensure robust target capture and maintenance even in demanding or cluttered environments. The hardware is mounted on a high-precision positioner, specifically designed for the rigours of mobile deployment. This emphasis on mobility reflects a broader strategic shift within the defence sector, moving away from static installations in favour of expeditionary sensor systems that can be rapidly deployed and redeployed as threats evolve.

For businesses and professionals within the UK defence supply chain, this contract award serves as a significant indicator of current procurement priorities. The integration of AI-driven tracking and high-resolution imaging into mobile platforms demonstrates the ongoing demand for sub-system specialists who can provide high-end technological solutions to major prime contractors. Mark Byfield, Business Development Director at Chess Dynamics, noted that the contract underscores the necessity for sensor capabilities to keep pace with shifting threats, particularly as mobile air defence platforms become more central to national and international security frameworks.

Furthermore, the award reinforces the importance of the relationship between prime contractors and specialised sub-contractors in delivering complex defence projects. As the UK Ministry of Defence continues to prioritise the modernisation of its surveillance and targeting assets, opportunities are likely to persist for providers of precision engineering, sensor hardware, and AI-enabled software. This project not only strengthens Chess Dynamics’ position in the mobile air defence domain but also illustrates the practical application of AI in enhancing the resilience and speed of modern targeting systems. As these units enter service, they will contribute to a more responsive and technologically advanced air defence infrastructure, providing essential data and clarity for commanders in the field.

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