Why the UK has fallen behind on drone warfare

Why the UK has fallen behind on drone warfare

From This Is Why by Sky News

June 9, 2026 · 16 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the UK's lag in drone warfare capabilities despite advancements in the industry.

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 Middle East 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 a question for the show? Email us: why@sky.uk

People in this episode

Host: Mhari Aurora

Guest: Deborah Haynes

Topics covered

  • drone warfare
  • UK military
  • defense technology
  • global conflicts
  • security
  • defense investment

Keywords

  • drone industry
  • UK defense
  • military technology
  • global volatility
  • conflict
  • investment

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Ministry of Defence, Sky

Places: Swindon, UK, Ukraine, Middle East

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