VerbatimParliament, as it happens

A400M Aircraft: Uncrewed Systems

Asked by Mr Andrew SnowdenConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 20 July 2026UIN 17837

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the outcomes of the Royal Navy's recent trial involving the airdrop of an uncrewed surface vessel from an A400M aircraft.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The recent trial was successful demonstration of a novel deployment method for uncrewed surface vessels, demonstrating the potential for rapid deployment of autonomous maritime capabilities in contested or hard-to-access environments. Further information about the trial can be found at the following website:

https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2026/july/08/20260708-uncrewed-vessels-airdropped-in-pioneering-trial-supported-by-royal-navy

No date has yet been set for the achievement of Initial Operating Capability for the deployment of uncrewed surface vessels from A400M aircraft. The capability remains subject to further testing and assessment.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim