The UK has awarded defense firm Anartes a five-million-pound ($6.6 million) contract to supply drone kits and training systems for the British Army’s first-person view (FPV) program.
Under the contract, the kits will be used to train pilots in delivering FPV strike capabilities and can later be fitted with simulated anti-tank, anti-personnel, or anti-structure munitions for advanced exercises.
The order covers at least 1,000 units each of quadcopter-style FPV drones measuring five inches (12.7 centimeters), eight inches (20.3 centimeters), and ten inches (25.4 centimeters). Each set includes batteries and FPV goggles. The systems are based on commercial off-the-shelf components and open-source firmware, enabling users to assemble and maintain the drones themselves.
Training will take place at Lulworth Camp, where instructors with several months of FPV experience will complete a two-day familiarization course using at least three systems. Soldiers must log 15 hours of simulator training before operating live FPV units, with a focus on replicating battlefield conditions.
UK Expands Drone Training and Acquisition Efforts
The Anartes contract adds momentum to the British Army’s FPV initiative launched in 2024 to build organic drone warfare skills within front-line units, as outlined in the Defence Drone Strategy.
This year, the army has expanded FPV pilot courses and introduced new simulation suites to improve flight control and targeting precision.
Beyond the army, the Royal Navy has deployed small autonomous drones for shipborne reconnaissance and resupply missions, while the Royal Air Force’s Protector RG Mk1 has recently entered service.
