MOD gives green light to Leonardo for “Proteus” demonstration flight

The UK Ministry of Defence’s Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) Future Capability Group (FCG) has awarded a four-year contract valued at 71 million Eur (£60 million) to Leonardo to deliver the Rotary Wing Uncrewed Air System (RWUAS) Technology Demonstration Programme.

The programme funded through Defence Innovation, will include the flight of an advanced uncrewed VTOL prototype referred to by the UK MOD as “Proteus”. Proteus is a key element of the Royal Navy Future Maritime Aviation Force (FMAF) vision for Anti-Submarine Warfare support.

Adam Clarke, managing director of Leonardo Helicopters (UK), said: “Uncrewed VTOL aircraft will transform military capability whilst also having application in other market sectors, both in the UK and around the world. This contract represents a major step towards our future in next generation uncrewed military technology and the sustainment of unique engineering skills onshore.”
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