In a significant move to enhance military training capabilities, the UK Ministry of Defence has awarded a contract to Viking Arms Ltd. for the rapid procurement of a fleet of 180 low-cost, first-person view (FPV) drones. This initiative, valued at £256,000 (approximately $336,805), is set to be completed in an impressive timeframe of just 19 days.
The contract encompasses the supply of three distinct models of drones—specifically 60 units each of 5-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch versions. Additionally, the deal includes vital accessories such as antennas, controllers, and goggles, ensuring that operators have all necessary tools for effective use of the drones in training scenarios.
Once delivered, these drones will be pivotal in training a new cohort of drone pilots, equipping them with essential skills designed for modern warfare environments. The unmanned aerial systems will be outfitted with powerful payloads that can mimic a range of munitions, including those designed for anti-tank, anti-personnel, and anti-structure engagements, thereby providing realistic combat training experiences.
To facilitate this transition, on-site familiarization training will be conducted for British Army instructors, who already possess experience operating military drone systems. This training will ensure that UK drone operators can adeptly handle the new FPV drones and maximize their operational potential.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence emphasized that this rapid acquisition showcases the UK’s dedication to maintaining a leading edge in military technology. “By investing in FPV drone training, we are equipping our forces with agile, low-cost precision strike capabilities that will provide a decisive tactical advantage on the battlefield, day or night,” the spokesperson remarked.
Moreover, this procurement aligns with the UK’s Any/Any Network initiative, which focuses on establishing seamless communication across various devices, irrespective of platform, location, or technology. The initiative seeks to create a digitally integrated battlefield, and developing a fleet of FPV drones is a crucial step towards fostering the skills necessary for operating interconnected systems in future mission scenarios.
This contract also reflects an urgent push within the British Army to bolster its capabilities, influenced by modern tactical insights observed during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Both sides in this conflict have extensively utilized FPV drones for a range of purposes, including surveillance, targeting, and executing precision strikes, demonstrating the significant role such technology plays in contemporary warfare.
