Wales named UK launchpad for next-generation autonomous technology

A £50 million Wales Defence Growth Deal was signed to position Wales as a UK launchpad for autonomous and uncrewed systems and to expand testing access; the parties intend to establish a Defence Technical Excellence College by September 2027.

A £50 million Wales Defence Growth Deal was signed at Cardiff Castle by UK and Welsh ministers to develop Wales' role in autonomous and uncrewed defence technology. The agreement aims to expand testing access, support local design and manufacture, and widen opportunities for Welsh businesses. It also includes an intention to set up a Defence Technical Excellence College by September 2027 to train defence engineers. The move is presented as part of broader efforts by both governments to support the Welsh defence and aerospace sector. Key details: - The deal was signed by Defence Secretary John Healey, Wales First Minister Eluned Morgan and Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens. - The package provides £50 million to develop Wales as a UK launchpad for autonomous and uncrewed systems, including platforms for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. - It will widen access to Ministry of Defence test ranges in Wales, including MOD Aberporth, and work with the Civil Aviation Authority and military partners to expand air corridors across central Wales for uncrewed aerial testing. - The agreement aims to make it easier for Welsh small and medium-sized businesses to gain direct access to secure defence contracts by improving clearances and access, rather than relying on prime contractors. - The parties intend to work collaboratively to establish a Defence Technical Excellence College by September 2027 to train the next generation of defence engineers. - The article notes the aerospace and defence sector in Wales directly employs over 16,000 people and that almost 4,000 are employed through MOD industry spending. Summary: Officials say the investment is intended to support testing, manufacturing and skills development in Wales and to broaden access for SMEs to defence work. Planned actions described include widening test-range access, expanding air corridors for uncrewed systems testing, and establishing the Defence Technical Excellence College by September 2027.