Two Dutch firms are aiming to make European missile interceptors smarter by developing advanced radar seeker technology designed to improve target tracking and discrimination.

The Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) and defense firm Destinus plan to establish a joint venture to develop, test, and industrialize radio frequency (RF) seekers for interceptor systems.

RF seekers act as the “eyes” of precision-guided munitions, enabling them to distinguish between real targets and decoys even in complex environments and adverse weather conditions.

While engagement decisions will remain under human control, the technology is intended to improve interceptor performance during the final phase of flight as it closes in on its target.

“Advanced seekers are among the most critical guidance technologies in modern air defense,” said Tim Moser, Destinus Chief Technology Officer.

“Radar seekers are essential because they enhance performance in conditions where purely optical systems have limitations, such as low visibility, weather effects, and more complex target environments.”

Development Path
TNO will focus on developing and validating the underlying RF seeker technology, establishing the program’s technical foundation.

Destinus will then take those developments and integrate them into operational systems, bridging the gap between research and deployable prototypes.

The joint venture is expected to formally launch later this year, with initial demonstrations planned for early 2027.

“The geopolitical situation requires Europe to strengthen its defense technological and industrial base,” TNO Chief Executive Tjark Tjin-A-Tsoi said.

“By making technology available earlier and at scale, this joint venture creates important opportunities for Dutch high-tech companies to produce, integrate, and scale technologies that are vital to European defence capability.”

• NextGenDefense