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Uncrewed Systems: Helicopters

Asked by James CartlidgeConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 8 January 2026UIN 101435

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when he expects Proteus to be deployed.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The Proteus Technology Demonstrator Project (TDP) is testing the efficacy of a large, unmanned helicopter, designed from the outset to incorporate modular payloads and a high degree of autonomy, to fulfil a range of warfighting roles for the Royal Navy.

The Proteus TDP will culminate with the first flight of the air vehicle, expected to take place in January 2026. Thereafter, the Royal Navy intends to take the knowledge gained from Proteus to inform the development of an operational rotary wing platform for maritime surveillance and strike roles during the next decade.

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