Thales shortlisted for UK Project NYX to develop Apache ‘loyal wingman’ drone capability

Project NYX is designed to develop uncrewed air systems that will operate alongside British Army Apache attack helicopters in future operations. The programme aims to deliver drones capable of functioning as ‘loyal wingmen’, supporting crewed aircraft in reconnaissance, surveillance, strike, target acquisition and electronic warfare tasks.

Thales stated that it is well positioned to support the programme, drawing on decades of experience in trusted autonomous systems, collaborative mission management and complex defence solutions. The company also highlighted its background in delivering safe, certified technologies under UK Military Aviation Authority regulations and confirmed it will continue its partnership with Schiebel to provide a flexible and scalable UK solution.

The firm noted its expertise in resilient autonomous and semi-autonomous systems capable of operating reliably in contested and degraded environments. As a long-standing UK defence partner, Thales said it remains committed to delivering sovereign solutions supported by a strong national industrial ecosystem.

According to background information published by the UK Ministry of Defence on 24 January 2026, seven industry partners have been invited to submit designs for the next stage of the programme. The invitation to tender followed a pre-qualification phase completed in late 2025, with the shortlist including Anduril Industries (UK) Ltd, BAE Systems Operations Ltd, Leonardo MW Ltd, Lockheed Martin UK Ltd, Syos Aerospace UK Ltd, Tekever Ltd and Thales UK Ltd.

Through the Strategic Defence Review, the UK is shifting towards greater use of uncrewed and autonomous systems to enhance battlefield mass and lethality. The drones will operate under a ‘command rather than control’ principle, using artificial intelligence for independent decision-making within defined mission parameters to enhance survivability and reduce risk to personnel.

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said: “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.” He added: “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.”

In March 2026, the shortlist will be reduced to four suppliers who will be invited to take part in research and development contracts to produce a concept. The programme is intended to advance the UK’s autonomous military capabilities while supporting domestic industry and innovation.