The UK government has officially selected seven leading defence companies to develop innovative designs for advanced "futuristic drones" intended to operate alongside British Army Apache attack helicopters in combat scenarios. This significant initiative, known as Project NYX, marks a pivotal step in enhancing the nation's military capabilities through cutting-edge autonomous technology.
Strategic Partnership with Defence Industry Leaders
Following a rigorous pre-qualification phase that concluded in late 2025, the Ministry of Defence has extended invitations to tender to a consortium of prominent firms. The selected companies include:
- Anduril
- BAE Systems
- Leonardo
- Lockheed Martin UK
- Syos
- Tekever
- Thales
This collaboration between government ministers and defence industry partners aims to accelerate the development of Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) that will function as integral components of future battlefield operations.
Swindon's Role in Drone Manufacturing
Among the selected firms, Tekever stands out as one of Europe's foremost drone manufacturing enterprises. The company recently inaugurated its largest UK production facility in Swindon during September, located within The Spectrum Building. This notable structure, originally constructed in 1982, was designed by the acclaimed architect Sir Norman Foster, blending historical architecture with modern military technology production.
Operational Capabilities and AI Integration
According to official government statements, these next-generation drones will serve as "loyal wingmen" to crewed Apache helicopters, performing a diverse range of complex military functions. Their operational remit includes:
- Reconnaissance and surveillance in contested environments
- Strike missions and target acquisition
- Electronic warfare capabilities
The drones will operate on a "command rather than control" principle, leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance their autonomous decision-making processes. This technological approach is designed to work in conjunction with traditional military assets like tanks and artillery, collectively strengthening Britain's Armed Forces on the battlefield.
Government and Industry Perspectives
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard, emphasised the strategic importance of this programme, stating: "These drones of the future will make the British Army more effective and lethal by enhancing our ability to strike, survive and win on the battlefield. Project NYX represents the cutting edge of the Defence Industrial Strategy, working with leading British industry partners to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of autonomous military technology."
The government has further clarified that these AI-enhanced systems will significantly improve mission effectiveness while simultaneously reducing both operational risks and logistical burdens associated with human-operated military platforms.
Project Timeline and Future Developments
The selection process will advance in March when the initial seven-company shortlist will be refined to just four suppliers. These chosen firms will subsequently receive contracts to participate in dedicated research and development phases, focusing on producing concept demonstrators. The programme targets achieving initial operational capability by 2030, establishing a clear roadmap for integrating these autonomous systems into regular military service.
This initiative underscores the UK's commitment to maintaining technological superiority in defence capabilities while fostering productive partnerships between government and the private defence sector. The development of these loyal wingman drones represents a transformative approach to modern warfare, blending human expertise with advanced artificial intelligence to create more resilient and effective military operations.
