Commons Sense

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Defence Drone Strategy 2024-05-20

2024-05-20

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Philip Hollobone
▸ Context
There are concerns about the progress and implementation details of the UK's defense drone strategy.
What progress has been made on the delivery of the UK defence drone strategy? I am concerned about how effectively this strategy is being implemented, especially after launching it in February. Specifically, what steps have been taken to build a sovereign industrial ecosystem for uncrewed procurement?
James Cartlidge
We are making excellent progress on implementing the defence drone strategy. Our priority is to build a sovereign industrial ecosystem for uncrewed procurement at scale for the British armed forces. We have delivered 4,000 drones to Ukraine and many more will be sent in the coming months.
▸ Assessment & feedback
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Q2 Direct Answer
Philip Hollobone
▸ Context
Concerns about counter-drone technologies are growing, particularly in relation to the effectiveness of such technologies in defending armed forces.
Does my hon. Friend agree that a key priority must be counter-drone technology to defend our forces? Does he also agree that directed energy weapons will play a crucial role in this regard?
James Cartlidge
My hon. Friend raises two excellent points: our drone strategy must include a focus on defending against drone threats, and directed energy weapons will be key in this regard. We have announced the procurement of laser weapon DragonFire to defend our forces quickly.
▸ Assessment & feedback
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Q3 Partial Answer
Jim Shannon DUP
Strangford
▸ Context
There is a desire for Northern Ireland's skilled workforce to be involved in the UK defense drone strategy.
What has been done to ensure that the skills of Northern Ireland's workforce are used for the benefit of the whole United Kingdom? Specifically, what actions have been taken or are planned to involve Northern Ireland's expertise in this strategy?
James Cartlidge
Northern Ireland is very much part of our defence industry. Just a few weeks ago, I was in Belfast at Thales factory manufacturing weapons that will be key for future orders and exports for the British Army.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The specific actions or plans to involve Northern Ireland's skilled workforce were not detailed.
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