British Army to replace Watchkeeper fleet with Tekever AR5 drones

Published Jul 25, 09:30 AM UTC

The British Army has selected the Tekever AR5 surveillance drone to replace its ageing Watchkeeper fleet under a contract worth up to £400 million over ten years. The Ministry of Defence announced an initial order for six AR5 drones, with up to 24 expected by 2029. The fixed-wing tactical uncrewed aircraft can carry up to 50kg of surveillance equipment and offers longer endurance than previous systems, providing real-time intelligence to commanders. The drones will be built at Tekever's new manufacturing facility in Swindon, sustaining and creating hundreds of UK jobs. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted the AR5's proven use in Ukraine and its role in supporting British troops while driving re-industrialisation. The Watchkeeper programme, developed by Thales UK based on an Israeli Elbit design, has been in service since 2014 but suffered delays and crashes. The AR5 has also been used by the UK for maritime surveillance in the English Channel. Subject to final approvals, the capability will begin entering service later this year.