HMGCC Co-Creation: AI-enhanced x-ray imaging for bomb disposal

Summary Eligibility Dates How to apply Supporting information

Overview

Can you develop a machine learning-enabled solution that helps engineers identify, characterise, and understand electronic components using only x-ray images?

To safely disarm explosive devices, skilled operatives sometimes use x-ray images to identify the electronic trigger and disarm it. However, this is difficult with complicated circuits and when the images are not clear.

This is a 12-week funded challenge. Applicants must deliver a demonstrator at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 within the project period.

HMGCC will provide funding for time and materials, overheads, and other indirect expenses for successful applicants.

Technology themes Applied research, artificial intelligence, computer vision, data science and engineering, machine learning, non-destructive testing, software development.

Key information

Total budget (ex VAT), up to: £60,000 Project duration: 12 weeks Competition opens: Monday 28 September 2026 Competition closes: Thursday 29 October 2026

Context of the challenge

Bomb disposal is dangerous work undertaken by military and policing agencies among other government organisations. A key part of the process to safely disable a suspected explosive device while limiting physical contact, is using x-ray images to identify the electronic components that make up the switching mechanism designed to detonate a suspected explosive device.

This task can be further complicated by the presence of tripwires, anti-tamper mechanisms, and other countermeasures that may trigger the device if disturbed.

Who should apply?

This challenge is open to sole innovators, industry, academic and research organisations of all types and sizes. There is no requirement for security clearances.

Solution providers or direct collaboration from countries listed by the UK government under trade sanctions and/or arms embargoes, are not eligible for HMGCC Co-Creation challenges.

28 Sept

Competition opens

16 Oct

Clarifying questions deadline

22 Oct

Clarifying questions published

29 Oct

Competition closes

10 Nov

Applicants notified

19 Nov

Pitch day

23 Nov

Pitch day outcome

27 Nov

Commercial onboarding begins*

Dec 26

Target project kick-off

*Please note, the successful solution provider will be expected to have availability for a 1-hour onboarding call via MS Teams on the date and time specified to begin the onboarding/contractual process.

Application process

Applications close 29 October 2026

Please find details on how to apply, as well as more information about the challenge, here.

Apply now

Supporting documents

Full challenge information