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Why the UK has fallen behind on drone warfare | This Is Why

Posted

June 9, 2026

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#Swindon. The epicentre of the global drone industry? As unlikely as it might seem, the Wiltshire town could soon be just that.

But instead of taking advantage of the cutting-edge weaponry being developed in the area, the UK is falling behind in the deployment of this potentially decisive technology.

Conflicts in Ukraine and the #MiddleEast have shown just how vital drones are in modern warfare – used as they are to such brutal effect on the front line.

But while the US and #ukraine are buying #British, the Ministry of Defence has yet to commit to large-scale investment in our own drone capabilities.

So, why is the UK dragging its feet? And how vulnerable does that leave the country at this time of increased global volatility?

Mhari Aurora speaks to Sky’s security and defence editor Deborah Haynes.

Have you got something you want the team to look into? Email the show – why@sky.uk

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