Anduril UK leads bid for future UK flight programs

LONDON - Anduril Industries UK has announced its leadership role in a consortium set to bid for upcoming flight opportunities in the UK. The team, which includes aerospace company Archer (currently valued at $7.3 billion and showing remarkable momentum with a 259% return over the past year according to InvestingPro), Skyports Drone Services, and AtkinsRéalis, aims to leverage the Midnight eVTOL aircraft for civil and defense applications within the UK, encompassing cargo and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations.

The collaboration will see Anduril act as the lead systems integrator, focusing on tailored software-defined mission autonomy, communications, and command-and-control systems to meet UK operational needs. Archer will provide the eVTOL aircraft platform, adapting its Midnight model for dual-use applications and continuing its work on a planned hybrid aircraft.

This initiative is expected to drive investment, job creation, and competition in the UK aviation and defense sectors, aligning with Anduril UK’s commitment to UK defense and economic growth. The partnership also continues the development of a hybrid-propulsion VTOL aircraft previously announced by Archer and Anduril. Archer maintains a strong financial position with a healthy current ratio of 15.8 and more cash than debt on its balance sheet, according to recent financial data.

AtkinsRéalis brings its expertise as the Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) first approved assessor of commercial drones to the table, supporting the integration of novel aviation technologies into UK airspace. Skyports Drone Services adds its operational experience, having delivered several BVLOS campaigns for clients such as the NHS and Royal Mail.

Dr. Rich Drake, Managing Director of Anduril UK, emphasized the partnership’s alignment with UK innovation and growth ambitions, noting the integration of leading eVTOL technology, infrastructure expertise, and safety systems to accelerate VTOL and BVLOS advancements. Verity Richardson, Head of Business Development at Archer, highlighted the significant opportunities in the UK for deploying advanced dual-use aircraft.

Alex Brown, Director of Skyports Drone Services, and David Clark, Global Head of Aerospace & Defence at AtkinsRéalis, both underscored the strategic importance of the partnership in advancing UK aviation technologies and integrating automated uncrewed aircraft into UK skies.

Anduril UK’s software-focused product development strategy has led to the deployment of several dual-use military capabilities, including the Ghost autonomous uncrewed air system for the UK MOD. The collaboration with industry leaders aims to reinforce the UK’s position in the future of flight.

The information for this article is based on a press release statement.

In other recent news, Archer Aviation reported a narrower-than-expected loss for the first quarter of 2025, with an earnings per share (EPS) of -$0.17, surpassing analysts’ forecast of -$0.28. The company also revealed a substantial cash position of $1.03 billion, marking the highest in its history. Archer Aviation has been selected as the Official Air Taxi Provider for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, a partnership expected to showcase its Midnight eVTOL aircraft. This development aligns with the company’s strategic focus on urban air mobility, as it prepares for the launch of its Midnight aircraft later this year.

Cantor Fitzgerald maintained an Overweight rating on Archer Aviation, expressing optimism about the company’s FAA certification progress and its partnerships with entities like Anduril and United Airlines. The firm anticipates Archer’s initial eVTOL launch in the United Arab Emirates by the fourth quarter of 2025, viewing this as a pivotal step in the company’s commercialization efforts. Additionally, Archer’s expansion into hybrid VTOL technology is seen as a strategic diversification move, potentially reducing regulatory hurdles.

Archer Aviation’s financial position and strategic partnerships are viewed positively by analysts, supporting a bullish outlook on the company’s stock. These developments reflect the company’s commitment to advancing its technological capabilities and expanding its market reach.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.