HADeS Airport Security Screening Innovation Competition (UK)

The focus areas include threat detection for an expanded range of materials under new detection standards, interoperability between primary screening systems and alarm resolution equipment to ensure cohesive system performance, and optimisation of screening operations to reduce alarms, enhance screening of complex containers and concealments, and lower operator burden. Additional areas of interest include passenger screening, hold baggage screening, and cargo screening.

The competition is designed to explore whether advanced detection standards and related technologies can be practically implemented within a 3–5 year timeframe. It encourages solutions that enhance both security performance and operational viability at airport checkpoints, particularly for cabin baggage screening, including items placed in trays and oversized baggage handling scenarios.

Two funding tracks are available. Track 1 supports emerging security innovations at the proof-of-concept stage with funding of up to £40,000, focusing on early exploration, research, stakeholder engagement, modelling, and initial testing. Track 2 supports evolving security innovations at the pre-demonstrator stage with funding of up to £75,000, focusing on the development and testing of early prototypes in controlled or simulated environments.

Eligible applicants include businesses of any size and university or academic institutions that are registered in the UK as lead organisations. International partners may participate as part of a consortium but may receive no more than 50% of the total grant. Large organisations may apply if they can justify the need for public funding over internal R&D resources. Successful applicants must be ready to begin work in September 2026, with project durations limited to a maximum of six months, and may be required to attend meetings and events as part of the programme.

For more information, visit Connected Places Catapult.