A nationally significant drone and defence technology cluster could be created in Swindon following the submission of a major innovation bid by Swindon Borough Council and Brunel University London. The proposal, submitted to UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Local Investment in Partnerships Fund (LIPF), outlines a 60‑month programme to accelerate growth in uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), autonomy and defence‑related advanced manufacturing.
The bid is designed to support rapid expansion of Swindon’s high‑tech industrial base. The town already stands among the most productive local economies in the country, generating £12.7bn in Gross Value Added (GVA), making it well‑placed for long‑term innovation‑led growth. The funding would help address the financial and infrastructure challenges involved in establishing an innovation cluster, supporting investment in advanced manufacturing space and enhanced research and development programmes for local businesses.
However, the Council notes that even if the application is successful, LIPF funding alone will not be sufficient to meet the full ambition of the proposed cluster due to the extensive infrastructure and specialist facilities required. Both the Council and Brunel University London will continue detailed work with industry partners to assemble a deliverable programme capable of driving economic growth and national leadership in autonomous systems.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, emphasised Swindon’s longstanding reputation for innovation. He said the proposed cluster has the potential to play a key role in strengthening the UK’s industrial capability in autonomous and uncrewed technologies. Robbins highlighted the importance of strong partnership working across industry, academia and government to maximise Swindon’s chances of securing investment in a field where the town is already attracting national attention.
Professor Geoff Rodgers, Pro Vice Chancellor (Enterprise and Employment) at Brunel University London, said the university is proud to collaborate on a programme designed to accelerate the UK’s leadership in uncrewed systems and advanced manufacturing—further strengthening the region’s competitiveness in high‑growth technology sectors.
If approved, the bid could significantly boost local employment, skills and investment opportunities, helping to position Swindon at the forefront of the UK’s rapidly developing drone and defence technology landscape.