British company Certo Aerospace has carried out new ground tests with the CAPSTONE helicopter drone equipped with Hellfire missile simulators, strengthening its preparations to compete for the British Army’s Project NYX.
The program aims to develop unmanned aircraft capable of operating alongside Apache helicopters in combat and reconnaissance missions.
Images shared by the company’s CEO, Justin Tooth, show the CAPSTONE using side mounts for the integration of weapons similar to Hellfire missiles. The initiative demonstrates that the company is advancing its ability to integrate precision weapons into the drone, something considered strategic for operations in high-risk environments.
The “loyal wingman” concept envisions drones operating alongside manned aircraft to extend operational reach and reduce the exposure of human crews. In the case of the Apache, which uses the Hellfire as its primary air-to-surface weapon, an auxiliary system capable of carrying or designating targets for similar munitions could significantly increase mission effectiveness.
According to Certo Aerospace, the CAPSTONE can carry up to 300 kilograms of payload, has an endurance of up to ten hours, and an approximate range of 483 kilometers. The drone can also operate from ships and be transported in standard containers. The competition for Project NYX also includes companies such as Anduril Industries, Tekever, and Thales UK, while the British government plans to select up to two prototypes in 2026, with entry into service expected by 2030.
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Source: UK Defence Blog | Photo: LinkedIn – Justin Tooth | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
