The UK government has shortlisted seven companies to develop prototype autonomous drones designed to operate alongside British Army Apache attack helicopters.
Known as Project NYX, the program will develop a drone capable of functioning as a loyal wingman to perform reconnaissance, surveillance, strike, target acquisition, and electronic warfare missions in contested environments.
The shortlisted companies are Anduril, BAE Systems, Leonardo, Lockheed Martin UK, Syos, Tekever, and Thales.
In March 2026, the list will be reduced to four suppliers, who will receive contracts to participate in R&D to produce a concept demonstrator.
Initial operational capability is targeted for 2030.
The drones will operate on a “command rather than control” principle, using AI for independent decision-making within mission parameters. According to the UK’s Ministry of Defence, the systems will enhance lethality, survivability, and mission effectiveness while reducing the risk and logistical burden for human-operated platforms.
Luke Pollard, UK Minister for defence readiness and industry said, “These drones of the future will make the British Army more effective and lethal by enhancing our ability to strike, survive and win on the battlefield.
“Project NYX represents the cutting edge of the Defence Industrial Strategy, working with leading British industry partners to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of autonomous military technology.”
The invitation to tender follows a pre-qualification phase that concluded late last year. The program forms part of the UK’s Strategic Defence Review, which prioritizes the adoption of uncrewed and autonomous capabilities to complement conventional armored and artillery assets.
The British Army operates a fleet of 50 Boeing-made Apache helicopters, the last of which was delivered around a year ago.
Earlier this month, Leonardo revealed it had completed the first flight of its full-sized autonomous helicopter for the Royal Navy, Proteus.
