The Royal Air Force (RAF) has successfully conducted tests launching FPV (First Person View) drones from Chinook transport helicopters as part of the experimental Hornets Nest program.
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The announcement was made by the RAF itself via the X platform. The goal of the tests is to evaluate the use of helicopters as mobile platforms for the mass deployment of FPV drones—a technology that has become increasingly crucial in modern combat scenarios.
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In addition, in April 2025, the UK Ministry of Defence signed a contract with the company Viking Arms for the rapid delivery of 180 FPV drones of various sizes (5, 8, and 10 inches), in a deal worth £256,000 (around $336,805). The delivery of the equipment was completed in just 19 days, reinforcing the agility of British military logistics.
Strategic Investment in Multi-Domain Drone Capabilities
The United Kingdom has been rapidly accelerating its production and integration capabilities of drones across all branches of the armed forces. The Ministry of Defence has allocated £4.5 billion to research, development, procurement, and training initiatives focused on the use of unmanned systems within the army, navy, and air force.
“Drones are a revolutionary technology that is constantly evolving, and it is imperative that the UK continues to invest and maintain its position at the forefront of drone development to stay one step ahead of our adversaries,” the Ministry stated in an official release.
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Source and images: Royal Air Force | X @RoyalAirForce | militarnyi. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
