BIRMINGHAM, UK, Aug 28, 2026 – Less than a year after launching a collaborative programme with the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV), GKN Aerospace unveiled its UAV demonstrator, marking the first public presentation of the platform and a major milestone for the programme.
“One year ago, this was an idea and an ambition. Today, we are unveiling the first tangible result of that work. That achievement reflects close collaboration with FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces and the combined expertise of teams across GKN Aerospace.”, Joakim Andersson, President, Engines, GKN Aerospace.
The initiative was announced in November 2025 with the objective of developing a UAV demonstrator and dedicated turbojet engine within 18 months. The effort brings together expertise in propulsion, aerostructures and systems integration from Sweden, the Netherlands, and the UK.
The programme includes the development of a dedicated turbojet engine, airframe and onboard systems. The demonstrator has been developed as a flexible platform for testing and evaluation, supporting the exploration of future uncrewed aviation technologies while providing valuable experience in how complex aerospace systems can be developed, integrated and manufactured on accelerated timelines.
Sara Eklöf, Senior Vice President Government Solutions, GKN Aerospace, said, “This milestone demonstrates what can be achieved when engineering, manufacturing and customer teams work towards a common goal. The experience gained will be valuable as the programme moves into its next phase.”
The initiative builds on the long-standing collaboration between GKN Aerospace, FMV, and the Swedish Armed Forces. Development and testing activities will continue as the programme moves into its next phase, including preparations for future flight-test activities.
The public display at The Armed Forces Air Venture 2026 includes a full-scale UAV mock-up together with the dedicated turbojet engine being developed as part of the programme. The event forms part of the Swedish Air Force’s centenary celebrations.
About the programme
The Swedish UAV programme, initiated by an FMV contract in November 2025, involves GKN Aerospace designing a clean-sheet UAV demonstrator and dedicated turbojet engine to accelerate rapid capability development, innovation, and scalable production.
About GKN Aerospace
GKN Aerospace is the world’s leading multi-technology tier 1 aerospace supplier. As a global company serving the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, GKN Aerospace develops, builds and supplies an extensive range of advanced aerospace systems, components and technologies– for use in aircraft ranging from helicopters and business jets to the most used single aisle aircraft and the largest passenger planes in the world. Lightweight composites, additive manufacturing, innovative engine systems and smart transparencies help to reduce emissions and weight on the aircraft and enhance passenger comfort. GKN Aerospace is market leading in aero-structures, engine systems, transparencies and wiring systems and operates in 15 countries at 51 manufacturing locations employing approximately 17,000 people. For more information, visit https://www.gknaerospace.com.
