The Counter-Drone Challenge, launched by the Ministry of Justice through His Majesty’s Government Communications Centre (HMGCC) Co-Creation, invites industry to find cutting-edge solutions to detect drones designed by criminals to evade current detection methods available on the market.

Successful applicants will receive £60,000 to develop proof-of-concept systems over a 12-week period.

The number of incidents at prisons involving drones increased by 770 per cent between 2019 and 2023. They are being used to smuggle contraband like drugs and phones into jails. 

£40 million is already being invested into prison security this year, including £10 million for anti drone measures.

Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, Lord Timpson, said: "We have taken decisive action to combat the scourge of drones in prisons - investing heavily in physical security and cutting-edge technology.

"This challenge will help us harness innovation to keep staff safe, disrupt criminal networks and support prisoner rehabilitation."