Swindon & Wiltshire News
Swindon set to be UK’s capital of drone technology
Swindon is set to be the capital of the UK’s drone technology and manufacturing sector – with nine companies either already established or heading for the town.
At a meeting of Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet this week, council leader Jim Robbins said five firms were already in Swindon or have announced they are coming – including Stark, Tekever, DSEI Flyby, and Munin Dynamics – with a further four having signed Heads of Terms.
The latest to announce its arrival is Los Angeles-based Neros Technologies. The firm already has offices in Washington and Kiyv and Swindon will be the base of a new “First Person View unmanned aerial vehicle” project for the UK armed forces and European allies.
Hugo Crawford, Europe growth lead at Neros, said: “As a leading manufacturer driving the shift to sovereign drone capability for allied forces, the UK has always been a critical hub for Neros.
“The establishment of Neros UK and opening our headquarters in a key drone manufacturing hub is a milestone as we look to bring our world-leading intellectual property and operational infrastructure to UK and allied forces around the world.”
Will Stone MP, Member of Parliament for Swindon North, said: “It is outstanding to have Neros Technologies UK join the growing number of UAV manufacturing companies in Swindon.
“I am proud to be supporting them as they expand into the UK with their leading capabilities that I believe are crucial for supporting the next generation of warfare and supporting jobs here in Swindon.
“With five companies confirmed and more in the pipeline, it is undeniable that Swindon is now a major player in drone manufacturing.
Bases for the drone companies include Panattoni Park – the largest new employment land development in Europe, built on the site of the former Honda factory – and the iconic Spectrum Building, which was designed by Sir Norman Foster as a distribution centre for Renault UK in the 1980s.
