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GKN Aerospace and Anduril Industries UK have entered into a strategic teaming agreement to accelerate the development of advanced Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and rotorcraft technologies for United Kingdom defence programmes.
The collaboration focuses on securing key contracts expected in early 2026, specifically targeting the UK Government’s Land Autonomous Collaborative Platform (ACP) and the British Army’s Project NYX. To support the requirements of Project NYX, the partnership will also leverage the electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) expertise of Archer. This industrial grouping intends to provide modern autonomous solutions while strengthening the sovereign industrial base within the UK.
Under the terms of the agreement, GKN Aerospace will spearhead the structural design and integration efforts. The company will utilize its established expertise in aerostructures, Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems (EWIS), and aerospace engineering. Much of this work is slated for GKN Aerospace’s Cowes facility, which recently received a £10 million investment to upgrade cleanrooms, processing equipment, and training infrastructure.
The agreement was formalised during a ceremony at the Cowes facility on 9 December, attended by Richard Quigley, Member of Parliament for Isle of Wight West. The event highlighted the partnership’s role in supporting the local manufacturing sector and creating opportunities for the regional workforce.
The Cowes site is currently the largest private employer on the Isle of Wight, with nearly 1,000 staff members. If the partnership is successful in its bids, the collaboration is projected to create more than 100 highly skilled roles at the facility over the next three years.
Dave Bond, Senior Vice President of Defence Technology for GKN Aerospace, commented, “This is an excellent example of collaboration and aerospace innovation at its best. By combining GKN Aerospace’s advanced manufacturing and integration expertise with Anduril’s innovative defence technologies, we can offer an industry-leading solution for the UK Army in rapid time. Together, we will deliver a next-generation UAV that meets the UK’s future operational needs while creating high-value jobs and sustaining critical skills in the UK.”
Rich Drake, Managing Director of Anduril Industries UK, noted, “We are excited to be working with such an established and trusted partner in British manufacturing. GKN Aerospace has long been a significant part of the UK’s industrial landscape, and we’re proud to be partnering with them on leading defence capabilities. With this, we will best placed to enhance the lethality and survivability for our Armed Forces.”
Adam Goldstein, CEO and Founder of Archer, added, “Our continued work in the United Kingdom reflects the strength of our partnership with Anduril and the speed at which our domestic supply base is coming together. With Archer’s eVTOL and rotorcraft technologies, Anduril’s autonomy, and GKN Aerospace’s industrial capability working as one, we have a team that can deliver the next generation of advanced aviation for the UK.“
Commenting on the impact on the local community, Richard Quigley said, “The partnership between GKN Aerospace and Anduril UK is exceptionally positive news for the Isle of Wight. It demonstrates that innovative, high-tech manufacturing and advanced defence capability are being developed right here, supporting local jobs and the growth of vital skills. Partnerships like this help ensure our region remains at the forefront of cutting-edge industry, and it goes hand in hand with the work I am already doing with GKN Aerospace and other Island employers to create opportunities for school leavers. I warmly welcome the opportunities it will create for our community.“
