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Ukraine: Unmanned Air Systems

Asked by Mr Mark FrancoisConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 2 February 2026UIN 108596

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has considered gifting Watchkeeper to Ukraine.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The UK and partners will continue to ensure we equip Ukraine as best we can to defend its sovereign territory and ensure it is in a position of strength for any peace negotiations.

Since Watchkeeper Mk1 entered service in 2010, drone technology has evolved at remarkable pace, driven by the extensive use of unmanned systems in the war in Ukraine. The Department has therefore prioritised this effort on more cost-effective drones that deliver comparable capability and can operate in the most demanding environments.

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