The UK’s push toward a more autonomous future battlefield has taken a major step forward, with British-based defence companies selected to develop prototype helicopter drones designed to
fly alongside Apache attack helicopters.
The initiative, known as Project NYX, will see a new generation of uncrewed aircraft act as “loyal wingmen” to the Army’s Apache fleet, supporting missions ranging from reconnaissance and surveillance to electronic warfare, strike, and target acquisition in highly contested environments.
Defence officials say the programme reflects a fundamental shift in how the UK expects to fight future wars. Rather than relying solely on crewed platforms, the Armed Forces are increasingly integrating autonomous and uncrewed systems to boost combat mass, survivability and lethality—while reducing risk to personnel.
A new way of war
Under Project NYX, the drones are being designed to operate on a “command, not control” principle. Instead of being micromanaged by human operators, they will use artificial intelligence to make independent decisions within defined mission parameters, adapting in real time to fast-changing battlefield conditions.
The Ministry of Defence believes this approach will allow Apache helicopters to operate more effectively, with drones pushing deeper into dangerous airspace, gathering intelligence, confusing enemy defences, and even delivering precision effects—all while keeping pilots further from harm.
The programme is a flagship example of the ambitions set out in the Strategic Defence Review, which emphasises the growing role of autonomy, AI and uncrewed systems alongside traditional “heavy metal” capabilities such as tanks and artillery.
Industry partnership at the core
Seven defence and technology firms have now been invited to advance to the next stage of the competition following a rigorous pre-qualification process that concluded in late 2025. The shortlisted companies are:
- Anduril
- BAE Systems
- Leonardo
- Lockheed Martin UK
- Syos
- Tekever
- Thales
Working in close partnership with the Ministry of Defence, these companies will refine their concepts for drones capable of seamlessly teaming with Apache helicopters during operations.
Political backing and economic impact
Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, said the programme would both strengthen the Army and support the UK’s defence industrial base.
‘These drones of the future will make the British Army more effective and lethal by enhancing our ability to strike, survive and win on the battlefield.
Project NYX represents the cutting edge of the Defence Industrial Strategy, working with leading British industry partners to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of autonomous military technology”, he said.
The government has also framed the programme as part of a broader effort to back British companies and drive economic growth through defence innovation.
What happens next
In March 2026, the shortlist will be reduced from seven to four suppliers, each of which will be offered contracts to carry out research and development and deliver a concept demonstrator. The aim is to achieve initial operational capability by 2030, placing the UK among a small group of nations fielding autonomous combat air systems designed specifically to operate alongside attack helicopters.
If successful, Project NYX could redefine how British Army aviation fights—pairing human pilots with intelligent machines in a tightly integrated team built for the conflicts of the future. Photo by Andysmith248, Wikimedia commons.