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Use of Drones in Defence
03 September 2025
Lead MP
Peter Fortune
Bromley and Biggin Hill
Con
Responding Minister
Al Carns
Tags
Ukraine
Word Count: 14628
Other Contributors: 13
At a Glance
Peter Fortune raised concerns about use of drones in defence in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The UK must develop an ecosystem of private enterprises that can innovate, test and build drone models at scale, help commercial drone enterprises thrive for military purposes, and start training our forces to utilise drones more effectively in modern warfare. Additionally, the country needs solutions to counter cheaply purchased drones with a grenade attached.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Drones are not a new tool but their use is now revolutionising warfare. Up to 80% of Russian and Ukrainian casualties are due to drones, which have transformed combat on the frontline, making moving positions and supplies a deadly task. Drones threaten infantrymen, fortified positions and vehicles up to 9 miles from contact lines.
Agreed with the need for high-low mix capabilities, combining sophisticated fifth generation capability with relatively low-end hardware. Noted false lessons from Ukraine's Black sea experience and discussed implications of data and AI in warfare. Discussed the integration of drones at various levels within the armed forces and mentioned a 20:40:40 capability mix for the British Army. Discussed the £1 billion investment in an integrated targeting web and highlighted the importance of software being interchangeable. Mentioned the establishment of the uncrewed centre of excellence by February, which will help develop skills and regulatory frameworks.
Apsana Begum
Ind
Poplar and Limehouse
Asked whether drones should be used to kill children, and if UK-made drones exported to Israel before licences were suspended are being used against children in Gaza.
Agreed that the weak spots of tanks are probably underneath or to the rear, suggesting protection for tracks and mobility infrastructure to prevent immobilisation. The hon. Member expresses concerns about the control of AI-capable drones and the potential for them to switch targets, suggesting careful consideration is needed when employing drones. He also points out that the application of a two-stage warhead to an FPV drone will become an increasingly potent threat. Asked about redesigning military logistical supply to accommodate new drone systems. Asked about advancing civilian licences for autonomous maritime capability to enhance drone development more quickly.
Edward Morello
Lab
Bolton South East
The hon. Member highlights the rapid change in drone technology and the deployment of artificial intelligence, suggesting that UK innovation in AI needs to be supported more in our technology sector and universities.
Gregory Campbell
DUP
East Londonderry
Congratulates Mr Fortune on securing the debate and agrees that Ukraine's soldiers need more support against Russian drone attacks. Also expresses concern about the global threat of cheap drones and their impact.
Gregory Stafford
Con
Farnham and Bordon
Supports Mr Fortune's call for innovation in drone warfare, mentioning that compartmentalised and bitty innovations within the armed forces need to expand into the private sector. Emphasises the importance of learning from military links with Ukraine.
Helen Maguire
Con
Epsom and Ewell
Drones have transformed modern warfare, allowing for real-time battlefield intelligence without risking soldiers' lives. However, they face ethical concerns and technical vulnerabilities. Talked about the reality of warfare and how drones can be used to keep soldiers safe, especially with developing AI technologies.
James Cartlidge
Con
South Suffolk
Emphasises the importance of people over technology, praising the rapid procurement and deployment for Ukraine. Highlights a shift towards embracing drone technology for UK's armed forces modernisation. Discussed the importance of uncrewed systems in naval warfare and mentioned a Ukrainian naval drone downing a Russian Su-30. Asked about the need for a C2 system and mentioned ACCS, which was not fit for purpose.
Jamie Stone
LD
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross
Discussed the potential of drones, using HMS Queen Elizabeth as an example. Highlighted the vulnerability of tanks to drone attacks and questioned whether we are at a 'Dreadnought moment' where we need to rethink how we design and deploy armour.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
The MP highlighted the benefits and future potential of drones in defence, citing examples from popular culture and current technological advancements. He noted the UK's investment of £40 million in radio frequency-directed weapons research. Discussed the pace of change in modern warfare, comparing it to science fiction themes like 'Star Wars'.
Wendy Morton
Con
Aldridge-Brownhills
The MP discussed the integrated procurement model and its challenges, highlighting a current procurement freeze and delays in drone acquisition.
Peter Fortune
Con
Bromley and Chislehurst
Through conflicts at the beginning of last century, we saw huge innovation and people learning not to fight the previous conflict. We must consider how we get ready for unknown future conflicts.
An unspecified speaker noted that only three drones have been ordered since the general election, expressing concern over this number.
Government Response
Al Carns
The Minister for Veterans and People
Government Response
The Minister expresses passion for the issue due to his combat experience and highlights the importance of technological advancement in warfare, particularly noting the revolution in Ukraine. He emphasizes the need for uncrewed systems to enhance national security and supports faster adoption of technologies like drones. Discussed the need for integration and a C2 system, highlighting the importance of software interoperability. Mentioned the £1 billion investment in an integrated targeting web and the establishment of an uncrewed centre of excellence by February to develop skills and regulatory frameworks. Emphasised the immediate and decisive response to evolving drone warfare capabilities.
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Assessment & feedback
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.