Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems 2026-07-06

Monday 6 July 2026 · 5 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Defence continually assesses threats from aerial drones and has allocated 790 million for integrated air and missile defence.
  • The defence investment plan emphasizes uncrewed capability and autonomy, with significant funding for research and development at Predannack air station.
  • The Government agrees on the importance of technical innovation and investment in necessary technologies for future warfare.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Andrew George Lib Dem St Ives
Defence
Context

The question stems from the ongoing assessment of UK's defence capability to respond to threats posed by aerial drones. The government has previously acknowledged the need for enhanced counter-drone capabilities.

Question

What assessment have you made of the adequacy of our defences against remotely piloted aircraft systems? Are there specific measures in place, such as funding allocations and training initiatives?

Answer from Louise Jones

Defence continually assesses threats and risks in all areas, including aerial drones. The defence investment plan contains measures to accelerate transformation and equip forces for modern warfare, including £790 million for integrated air and missile defence. Defence has taken extensive steps to strengthen homeland counter-drone capability.

Answered
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Q2 Andrew George Lib Dem St Ives
Defence
Context

Predannack, also known as Pradnick, is an important location for research and development of drone technology. The site has clear airspace making it ideal for scaling up such capabilities.

Question

Given the importance of Predannack air station for research and development, particularly its role in autonomous systems, will the Government ensure that this facility's potential is fully utilized at pace?

Answer from Louise Jones

The hon. Member is right to highlight the fantastic work being done at Predannack, and I agree wholeheartedly with him. The defence investment plan places significant emphasis on uncrewed capability and autonomy, and the hon. Member will be well aware of the other measures that we have taken to provide support.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not specify timelines or concrete actions for utilizing Predannack's potential at pace.

How: We Are Committed To

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Q3 Peter Prinsley Lab
Defence
Context

Historical context highlights the importance of rapid technological advancements, such as Vickers machine gun production during World War I. This relates to current needs for advanced drone technology.

Question

Warfighting depends not only on bravery but also on technical innovation by manufacturers like those in Suffolk. Should we always be ready for the next war, investing in necessary technologies and manufacturing capabilities?

Answer from Louise Jones

I wholeheartedly agree. That was a key message of this defence investment plan, which looks ahead to the technology we will need in the future—for example, we have allotted £5 billion to uncrewed systems.

Answered
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Q4 Danny Kruger Reform
Defence
Context

There is recognition that current defence procurement models may need improvement to meet future technological needs. This includes the recent establishment of a new drone facility in Swindon.

Question

Given the welcome but insufficient funding for defence, can you affirm the Government's commitment to improving our procurement system? Is now the time to expedite innovative defence procurement?

Answer from Louise Jones

I thank the hon. Member for raising a hugely important point—he is absolutely right. This Government are committed to changing and improving our procurement system so that it can deliver the vital kit and equipment that our troops deserve.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not provide specific details on reforms or timelines, merely reiterating commitment without specifics.

How: We Are Committed To

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Q5 Luke Akehurst Lab
Defence
Context

Recent conflicts have highlighted the importance of effective counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operations, beyond just having the right equipment.

Question

In addition to procurement and deployment of counter-UAS equipment, what measures are being taken to train military personnel in these necessary skills?

Answer from Louise Jones

My hon. Friend is right that as well as ensuring that we purchase the right kit and equipment, we must ensure that we have personnel who are trained and ready to use it, adapting to the new way of warfare.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not provide specific training initiatives or timelines, only general agreement on importance.

How: We Are Committed To

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