• Swindon & Wiltshire Manufacturing
• Monday June 15 2026

MoD announces drone test site for Swindon

Swindon’s reputation as a hub for drone technology was further strengthened on Friday with a government announcement that the MoD was opening a new test facility in the town.

Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis, who had been in the role for less than 24 hours, visited the town to unveil the new Defence Uncrewed Systems Centre.

The facility, located at the former Honda site, will support the rapid development and testing of uncrewed aerial and ground systems, as the MOD looks to accelerate deployment of autonomous technologies across the armed forces.

Defence officials said the centre will play a key role in strengthening the UK’s operational edge, enabling faster experimentation and integration of cutting-edge systems in response to evolving global threats.

The Swindon site has been selected for its strategic location and existing infrastructure, with investment expected to create highly skilled jobs and attract further defence and technology partners to the area.

Minister for Defence Procurement Maria Eagle said the centre represents “a major step forward in how we develop and deploy uncrewed capability”, adding that it will “ensure our armed forces remain at the forefront of technological advantage”.

The facility will focus on real-world testing environments, allowing industry partners, SMEs and academic institutions to collaborate directly with defence teams on next-generation systems, including drones, autonomous vehicles and AI-enabled platforms.

Local leaders have welcomed the announcement as a major endorsement of Swindon’s economic potential. Swindon Borough Council said the investment reinforces the town’s transition towards high-value manufacturing and innovation-led growth.

Swindon North MP Will Stone, who has been instrumental in attracting drone companies to Swindon, said: “This is the largest MOD defence investment in the South West this year.

“It is going to be a world leading defence testing facility that will boost employment across Swindon.
After getting elected I made it clear that getting defence investment in Panattoni was a priority.

“It is amazing to be able to deliver on that commitment!
These types of announcements don’t come together overnight; it has taken a substantial amount of effort to get this across the line.

“I want to say a massive thank you to those who have made this possible, especially Brigadier Stu Nasse, former Minister Al Carns, SBC officers and the team at Panattoni.”

And Matt Griffith, director of policy at Business West, said: “The new facility firmly cements Swindon’s position as a hub for defence manufacturing and innovation. It activates a prime employment site, generating and retaining high-quality jobs in Swindon and across the wider supply chain.

“This delivers a significant boost for the town, the region and the UK.

“It also represents a clear win for the town and its collaboration with businesses in supporting and championing inward investment and the opportunities that defence and drone companies can bring.”