Companies have been selected for a programme to build futuristic ‘wingman’ drones to operate alongside British Army Apache attack helicopters.
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Press Release, Whitehall, 24 January 2026: [extracts] A programme to build futuristic ‘wingman’ drones to operate alongside Apache attack helicopters is advancing as British companies have been selected to develop prototypes.
Seven industry partners have been invited to bring forward their designs for the futuristic drones, which will accompany British Army helicopters in future battles. Known as Project NYX, the programme is an innovative approach to work alongside industry to advance development of Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) to operate alongside Apache attack helicopters.
When completed the drones will be able to function as ‘loyal wingmen,’ working alongside crewed Apache attack helicopters to perform a variety of complex tasks such as reconnaissance and surveillance in contested areas, strike and target acquisition and electronic warfare.
The drones will operate on a ‘command rather than control’ principle, utilising AI for independent decision-making – being able to adjust to complex battlefield situations within the bounds of mission parameters. They will enhance lethality, survivability, and mission effectiveness while reducing the risk and logistical burden for human-operated systems.
The invitation to tender follows a rigorous pre-qualification phase that concluded late in 2025. Backing British companies and making defence an engine for growth, the seven shortlisted industry partners are as follows:
- Anduril
- BAE Systems
- Leonardo
- Lockheed Martin UK
- Syos
- Tekever
- Thales
In March 2026 the shortlist will be further down selected to four suppliers, when they will be invited to and offered contracts to participate in research and development to produce a concept demonstrator, with initial operational capability targeted for 2030.
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