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UK frontline troops will receive over 1,000 new surveillance drones, ranging from micro-aircraft under 250 grams to heavy-duty battlefield systems.
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The UK Ministry of Defence has announced a major upgrade for frontline soldiers, putting over one thousand new surveillance drones directly into military hands.
Under a fresh deal worth up to £400 million, the British Army is buying advanced Tekever AR5 uncrewed aircraft, a press release from the UK Ministry of Defence says.
These flying machines carry up to 50 kilograms of sensors, replace the ageing Watchkeeper system, and offer commanders deeper reach over conflict zones.
At the same time, a separate £16 million project brings more than a thousand smaller, hand-launched devices straight to infantry units.
Eyes in the sky
Speaking at the Defence Vehicle Dynamics exhibition, Defence Readiness Minister Luke Pollard emphasised the strategic push behind the equipment.
“Our soldiers deserve the best technology, and that’s what we’re delivering,” Pollard said.
He added: “From small drones giving troops eyes on the enemy, to the AR5 offering commanders better intelligence over the battlefield, we’re transforming the Army’s ability to see, understand and act first.”
Proven in battle
The smaller fleet includes three distinct models tailored for rapid action. Evolve Dynamics is supplying 245 tiny FOXE-NATO drones weighing under 250 grams with infrared cameras.
Another 670 Skydio X10 aircraft from Marlborough Communications can launch in under a minute and reach 45 miles per hour, while 110 SONORA devices will train troops for operations.
The heavy-duty AR5 aircraft has already seen active service in Ukraine, proving its value against Russian forces. Production will take place at a new facility in Swindon, with an initial delivery of six aircraft expanding to 24 by 2029.
Tekever UK Managing Director Karl Brew highlighted the operational impact of the contract.
“This investment allows us to grow our UK operations, create hundreds of skilled jobs and bring cutting-edge surveillance technology, proven on the battlefield in Ukraine, into service with British forces,” he said.
This double contract sits inside Project Rapstone, a military initiative designed to double the Army’s combat strength by 2027 while cutting procurement times down to under two years.
