Europe Weighs Two Consortia for EATMI's Next Phase

The European Commission is expected to choose between HYDEF and HYDIS for the next phase of EATMI, a program aimed at developing an interceptor for advanced missile threats, including hypersonic and ballistic missiles. The reported selection deadline is November 30, 2026.

Key details

• The first phase concluded at the end of October 2026 after both consortia completed preliminary requirements reviews.
• The next phase is expected to start in 2027 and focus on technology development and preliminary system design.
• HYDEF involves Spain, Germany, Poland, Belgium and Norway. Spanish Missile Systems leads the consortium, and Diehl Defence coordinates its technical work.
• HYDIS involves France, Italy, the Netherlands and Germany, with participants including MBDA, Saab, Thales, Leonardo, TNO and FOI.
• The European Defence Fund is reported to have allocated €100 million for the second phase.

The European Defence Fund is reported to have allocated €100 million for EATMI’s second phase.

Why it matters

The program’s stated objective is an endo-atmospheric air-defense capability, meaning an interceptor designed to operate within Earth’s atmosphere. The European Commission is reported to target a system-level demonstrator at technology readiness level 6 by 2030, with service entry anticipated around 2035.