UK MoD selects Tekever AR5 drones to replace British Army's Watchkeeper fleet

Published Jul 27, 01:41 PM UTC

The UK Ministry of Defence has selected Tekever's AR5 surveillance drones to replace the British Army's aging Watchkeeper fleet, with an investment of up to £400 million ($532 million) over the next ten years. The initial order includes six drones, with plans for up to 24 units by 2029. The AR5 is a medium-altitude, medium-endurance fixed-wing UAS with a 7.3-meter wingspan, capable of carrying 50 kg of surveillance equipment and remaining airborne for up to 20 hours. It will be built at Tekever's new manufacturing facility in Swindon. The MoD expects the AR5 to enter service later this year, with support committed for a minimum of five years. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted the drone's proven performance in Ukraine. The selection aligns with the UK government's £5bn Defence Investment Plan for drone and autonomous technologies.