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Unmanned Air Systems: Procurement

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 8 September 2025UIN 72190

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to procure the General Atomics MQ-9B SeaGurdian for maritime ISR operations.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The Strategic Defence Review sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform Defence and make the UK stronger both at home and abroad. The Government endorses the Review's vision and accepts all 62 recommendations. As referenced in recommendation 46, the provision of maritime surveillance capability for Protector is currently being considered.

The implementation of the Review's recommendations is underway. We will develop a new Defence Investment Plan to take onboard the Review's vision and recommendations and turn them into a delivery plan. We will ensure that this Plan is affordable, considers infrastructure and people, alongside capabilities and maximises the benefits of defence spending to grow the UK economy.

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