Ukrainian Drone Firm to Invest £200M in Britain
Ukraine’s largest drone manufacturer, Ukrspecsystems, has announced a £200 million investment programme in East Anglia, including a new 11,000m² factory at Mildenhall and a test and training site at Elmsett, Suffolk.
The project is expected to create up to 500 jobs and apprenticeships across the region, with onboarding of the UK workforce due to begin later this year. Production of drones is scheduled to start in early 2026.
The announcement comes days after Lotus confirmed 550 job cuts at its Hethel headquarters in Norfolk, underlining the significance of new investment for the area. Ukrspecsystems has said it plans to expand further in the UK over the next three years.
Rory Chamberlain, Managing Director UK at Ukrspecsystems, said:
“Ukrspecsystems is proud to be the first Ukrainian company to commit to a funded plan to invest in infrastructure, jobs and skills in the UK. Our factory at Mildenhall and flight test and training facility at Elmsett are testament to this commitment. Our unmatched battle winning technology and know-how, coupled with UK aviation and industrial expertise, will enable Ukrspecsystems to become the global leader in uncrewed systems in both the civil and military sectors, and establish the UK as a launch pad for export markets.”
Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle MP welcomed the news, stating:
“We stand united with Ukraine and we recognise its world-leading drone capabilities. By collaborating with Ukrainian companies like Ukrspecsystems we will benefit from access to cutting-edge designs and innovative technologies, strengthening the UK’s Armed Forces and those of our partners. This £200 million investment will also improve our industrial base and create up to 500 jobs, driving economic growth and prosperity around the country – core elements of our upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy.”
Local leaders also highlighted the significance for East Anglia. Cllr Richard Smith, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, Economic Development and Skills, said:
“This is an exciting opportunity for our region, and a clear demonstration of the enormous potential East Anglia offers to ambitious and growing businesses. With our strong business networks and record of championing enterprise and innovation, this area will provide an ideal location for Ukrspecsystems’ expansion into the UK. I am particularly pleased we have been able to assist this investment through Norfolk and Suffolk Unlimited, which provides tailored support for businesses looking to establish themselves across the region.”
Source: UK Defence Journal
