A nationally significant drone and defence technology cluster could be established in Swindon under a new investment proposal aimed at accelerating the UK’s leadership in autonomous systems.
Swindon Borough Council has partnered with Brunel University London to submit a major funding bid to UK Research and Innovation through its Local Investment in Partnerships Fund (LIPF).
The proposal outlines a 60-month programme designed to support rapid growth in uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), autonomy and defence technology manufacturing in Swindon.
If successful, the bid would help create an innovation cluster supporting research, development and advanced manufacturing across the region.
Boosting High-Tech Growth
Swindon already ranks among the most productive local economies in the UK, with the borough generating around £12.7 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA).
The proposed programme would help tackle the financial challenges of developing an innovation cluster and support new facilities such as advanced manufacturing spaces and research development programmes for local businesses.
However, council leaders say the funding would only represent part of the wider investment required, with further collaboration needed with industry partners to fully deliver the vision.
Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said the town is well placed to take advantage of the rapidly growing sector.
“Swindon has a long history of leading in innovation, and our emerging cluster in autonomous and uncrewed systems has the potential to play a major role in the UK’s future industrial strength,” he said.
“We are committed to doing everything we can to support this opportunity for high-skilled jobs and long-term economic growth.”
Major Industry Investment Already Underway
The bid builds on significant investment already taking place in the town’s drone and autonomous technology sector.
Portuguese-based drone manufacturer TEKEVER is investing hundreds of millions of pounds in what is expected to become the UK’s largest drone production facility.
Other companies expanding in the area include STARK and Flyby Technology, both of which have established manufacturing operations for autonomous systems.
Meanwhile, US-based Neros Technologies recently announced a £10 million investment in Swindon.
Research and Testing Network
The proposed cluster would also make use of a wider network of research and testing facilities across the region.
These include the Satellite Applications Catapult testing site at Westcott and the Science Museum Group Science & Innovation Park at Wroughton.
Together with the Harwell Drone Test & Development Centre, the network would allow research, development, prototyping and operational testing to take place within a single regional innovation corridor.
Geoff Rodgers, Pro Vice Chancellor for Enterprise and Employment at Brunel University London, said the partnership brings together research expertise and industry ambition.
“Brunel University London is proud to be working with Swindon Borough Council to accelerate the UK’s leadership in uncrewed systems and advanced manufacturing,” he said.
“This partnership brings together world-class research, innovative industry and regional ambition to drive high-skilled jobs and long-term economic growth.”
A decision on the funding application is expected in the coming weeks.
