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UK Ministry of Defence Selects Tekever AR5 Drone

July 27, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

UK Ministry of Defence selects Tekever AR5 drone to replace Watchkeeper.
Deal worth up to £400 million over ten years.
Initial order of six aircraft, with up to 24 to be delivered by 2029.
Drones to be built at Tekever's Swindon manufacturing plant.

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Strategic Implications

This selection may indicate the UK MOD's preference for proven, adaptable drone systems, which could signal a shift in procurement priorities. The choice of Tekever AR5 suggests a focus on cost-effectiveness and availability, which may influence future drone procurement decisions.

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What Happened

British Army Replaces Watchkeeper With New Unmanned System

The UK Ministry of Defence has selected the Tekever AR5 to replace the British Army’s Watchkeeper drones in a deal worth up to £400 million over ten years. The initial order includes six aircraft, with up to 24 to be delivered by 2029. The drones will be built at Tekever’s Swindon manufacturing plant, which has yet to open. The capability is expected to begin entering service later in 2026, with support running for at least five years. This announcement was first reported by AeroTime.

Source | Originally Published: July 25, 2026

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