Advanced drone manufacturing to take off in Swindon by September
New facility set to boost local economy with skilled jobs and collaboration with education sector
A new unmanned aircraft manufacturing facility in Swindon is set to begin operations by September, boosting the local economy with skilled job opportunities.
Swindon Borough Council's new Leader, Councillor Gary Sumner, recently toured TEKEVER’s facility located at the Spectrum building in West Swindon.
The facility, backed by significant investment from the pan-European technology firm, will specialise in advanced drone production and artificial intelligence capabilities.
The commissioning of the site is expected to be completed in August.
Collaboration and Job Opportunities
During his visit, Councillor Sumner discussed plans with TEKEVER’s Deputy Director, Scott McClelland, for job creation and collaboration with New College Swindon.
This collaboration aims to shape curriculum pathways and create placement opportunities for young people in the town.
TEKEVER plans to use its technological knowledge in agile manufacturing at the Swindon site, making it a leading European facility.
Swindon as a Hub for Innovation
Swindon was chosen by TEKEVER due to its growing reputation for Unmanned Aircraft Systems innovation.
The town hosts a cluster of companies, including Flyby Technology, Munin Dynamics, and STARK, marking it as an emerging centre in the sector.
The Swindon site is expected to support significant employment growth as TEKEVER expands its UK manufacturing and engineering presence.
Councillor Sumner acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Council’s Inward Investment team and Swindon North MP, Will Stone, to attract technology firms to the town.
The recent arrival of UK Company iCOMAT in March, focusing on composites and lightweight components for drone companies, created 75 new jobs in Swindon.
Gary Sumner said: “It was fantastic to visit the TEKEVER site and see the scale of ambition behind their investment in Swindon.
“Our town is quickly establishing itself as one of the UK’s leading centres for Unmanned Aircraft Systems manufacturing, attracting world-class companies and creating highly skilled jobs for local people."
Scott McClelland added: “Swindon is becoming an increasingly important part of TEKEVER’s UK growth story, and we were pleased to welcome the Leader of the Council to our site to discuss our plans in more detail."