Swindon emerges as key player in UK-Ukraine drone manufacturing deal
Swindon rapidly becoming a drone manufacturing hub to strengthen Ukraine's defences
Swindon is set to become a central hub in the production of drones as part of a new defence partnership between the UK and Ukraine aimed at improving Ukraine's defence against drone attacks.
The agreement, announced after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, highlights Swindon's growing role as a manufacturing centre for defence equipment.
Sir Keir said: “Drones, electronic warfare and rapid battlefield innovation are now central to national and economic security, and that has only been further magnified by the conflict in the Middle East."
He added that strengthening defence partnerships would enhance Ukraine's ability to counter Russia's ongoing assaults and better prepare the UK and its allies for future threats.
Swindon North MP, Will Stone, has been instrumental in the town's development as a hub for defence manufacturing. He expressed satisfaction at the recent developments, stating, "More than that, it’s a confirmation from the government that the direction I’ve set for Swindon to become the drone hub of the UK is the right one.”
The drone industry in Swindon already features five companies and could soon expand further, with four additional firms in talks to open manufacturing facilities.
Tekever, one of the companies involved, plans to utilise the Grade II-listed Spectrum Building in Swindon to produce AR3 Stormshroud drones, part of a ÂŁ270 million deal. The UK government has purchased Tekever drones worth ÂŁ270 million for Ukraine's defence.
Another company, STARK, opened a factory in central Swindon last November. The company's founder, Uwe Horstmann, emphasized that their drones, including the Virtus unmanned vehicles made in Swindon, have been deployed in Ukraine.
Horstmann stated: “To have a democracy, you need to be able to defend yourself," reinforcing the importance of providing high-quality defence capabilities.
Swindon's strategic position in defence production not only supports local job growth and skill development but also contributes to strengthening both national and international security.