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Navy: Unmanned Air Systems

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 15 June 2026UIN 6949

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress has he made in delivering a short take-off and landing, jet powered Autonomous Collaborative Platform capable of operating from a Queen Elizabeth Class carrier via Project VANQUISH.

Answered by Luke Pollard

Progress on Project VANQUISH is focused on feasibility, industry engagement, and option development ahead of any acquisition decisions. While investment decisions remain subject to the outcome of the Defence Investment Plan, the Royal Navy, working with industry, intends to conduct an embarked demonstration of an uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) from a Queen Elizabeth Class carrier within the next 18 months.

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