To protect and serve: RAF's new StormShroud drones to support F-35s and Typhoons
The RAF has brought a new UK-made drone into service, using signal-jamming technology to disrupt enemy radar and help protect British aircraft in combat.
StormShroud drones carry electronic warfare systems that are designed to confuse air defence systems, shielding aircraft like the Typhoon and F-35 during missions.
The MOD says it marks a "step change" in capability, offering high-end electronic warfare without the need for crew on board, and freeing up personnel for other tasks.
The drones combine the Tekever AR3 airframe with a BriteStorm signal jammer and are part of a wider shift towards autonomous collaborative platforms (ACPs) – a family of uncrewed systems being developed for frontline missions.
An initial investment of £19m is being injected into the project, which will support around 200 highly skilled jobs across several locations, from West Wales to Somerset.
The system was unveiled during a visit by the Prime Minister to a Leonardo UK site in the south east, where he met staff involved in the programme, including engineering apprentices.
"Investment in our defence is an investment in this country's future," Sir Keir Starmer said.
The drones are based on technology already proven in Ukraine.
Tekever's AR3 and AR5 models have clocked more than 10,000 flight hours supporting Ukrainian forces during the war with Russia.
The RAF is now adapting those platforms for use in UK national defence, integrating homegrown electronic warfare systems.
"This is a seminal moment for the RAF to maintain our advantage in air combat and national security," said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton.
Tekever CEO Ricardo Mendes said the firm delivered StormShroud in under six months and announced a further £400m investment across the UK over the next five years, creating up to 1,000 new highly skilled jobs.
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