The program began under an FMV contract awarded in November 2025. It calls for GKN Aerospace to develop a clean-sheet UAV demonstrator and dedicated turbojet engine within 18 months.
“One year ago, this was an idea and an ambition,” said Joakim Andersson, President Engines at GKN Aerospace. “Today, we are unveiling the first tangible result of that work.”
“That achievement reflects close collaboration with FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces and the combined expertise of teams across GKN Aerospace,” Andersson added. The project combines propulsion, aerostructures and systems-integration work from Sweden, the Netherlands and the UK.
The program covers the aircraft’s airframe, onboard systems and turbojet engine. GKN Aerospace developed the demonstrator as a flexible platform for testing future uncrewed aviation technologies.
The initiative is also intended to build experience in developing, integrating and manufacturing complex aerospace systems on accelerated schedules. Its goals include rapid capability development, innovation and scalable production.
“This milestone demonstrates what can be achieved when engineering, manufacturing and customer teams work towards a common goal,” said Sara Eklöf, Senior Vice President Government Solutions at GKN Aerospace. “The experience gained will be valuable as the programme moves into its next phase.”
Development and testing will continue as GKN Aerospace prepares for future flight-test activities. At The Armed Forces Air Venture 2026, part of the Swedish Air Force’s centenary celebrations, the company is displaying a full-scale UAV mock-up and the dedicated turbojet engine under development.
