British troops will soon be operating a new fleet of spy drones battle-proven in Ukraine. More than 20 AR5s are set to be delivered as part of a deal worth up to £400million that will support hundreds of jobs in the UK, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.
The drones, which can carry 50 kilogrammes in surveillance kit such as sensors and cameras, are expected to begin entering service later this year. Designed by Portuguese firm Tekever, the drones will be built in the company’s new soon-to-be-open manufacturing facility in Swindon. The AR5 has reportedly been used by the Ukrainian military since 2022, helping to fend off Vladimir Putin’s invading forces.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Proven in Ukraine and designed to protect British soldiers globally, we’ve chosen the UK-based Tekever AR5 drone to supply our personnel with kit that will keep them ahead of emerging threats.
“This investment will support our troops on deployment, while driving re-industrialisation and backing British innovation.”
The AR5 will replace the British Army’s Watchkeeper which is retiring early next year after being beset by issues.
Watchkeeper entered service in 2014 and was originally not due to be retired until 2042.
The MoD said the AR5 will ensure British troops are “better protected and more lethal”, providing commanders with “real-time intelligence”.
It said the UAV offers “significantly improved endurance, sensor capability and reliability” than its predecessor.
On its website, manufacturer Tekever describes the AR5 as “most advanced medium-altitude, medium-endurance fixed-wing UAS on the market”.
It said the aircraft is capable of missions including search and rescue and maritime patrol.
The drone can remain airborne for 20 hours, with a cruising speed of around 62mph, and has an unlimited communications range.
The initial order is for six AR5 drones, with up to 24 to be delivered by 2029.
The 10-year deal, which could be extended, is subject to contract signature and final approvals.