The Prime Minister has praised the launch of the RAF’s cutting-edge UK-made drones, hailing them as a “game-changer” for national security, economic growth, and technological innovation.
Today, the new StormShroud drones officially come into operation, supporting hundreds of highly skilled jobs across the UK and reinforcing Britain’s commitment to bolstering its armed forces in the face of global instability.
The British-made drones, developed by Tekever, represent a major leap forward in combat air capabilities, drawing on vital lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Breakthrough Technology Enhancing RAF Combat Power
The StormShroud drone is the first of its kind, designed to enhance the survivability and lethality of the RAF’s Typhoon and F-35 Lightning aircraft. Equipped with BriteStorm signal jammers, the drones can disrupt enemy radars at long range, allowing RAF pilots to strike targets while remaining undetected.
For the first time, the RAF will benefit from high-end electronic warfare capabilities without requiring crewed aircraft, freeing up pilots for critical frontline missions.
The initial £19 million investment supports around 200 engineering jobs across sites in West Wales, Somerset, and beyond, with expansion opportunities anticipated as the programme grows.
Economic Boost Through Defence Innovation
The innovation doesn’t stop with StormShroud. Tekever, the British-Portuguese tech company manufacturing the drones, has announced a further £400 million investment in the UK over the next five years, expected to create up to 1,000 additional highly skilled jobs.
The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, visited a Leonardo UK site in the South East today to meet the engineers — including many apprentices — who are helping to build the next generation of defence technology.
Sir Keir Starmer said:
“Investment in our defence is an investment in this country’s future. It strengthens our economy, creates secure jobs, and ensures that Britain remains safe and prosperous for generations to come.
Building on Battlefield Experience
StormShroud drones are part of the RAF’s broader Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP) strategy, using battlefield experience from Ukraine to drive innovation. Tekever’s earlier AR3 and AR5 drones have logged more than 10,000 operational hours supporting Ukrainian forces against Russia’s illegal invasion.
The RAF’s new drone fleet will further solidify the UK’s position as a leader in advanced military technology while delivering on the government’s Plan for Change to boost jobs, growth, and security.
A Broader Defence Strategy
This milestone follows other major developments, including the recent deployment of the Carrier Strike Group led by HMS Prince of Wales, strengthening alliances across the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Asia-Pacific regions.
The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, underpinning long-term security and economic prosperity.
