The United Kingdom is embarking on a new initiative to deploy domestically manufactured drones, creating a "drone wall" aimed at strengthening NATO's defense against Russian aggression. This was announced by Defense Minister John Healey in an interview with The Telegraph.
Affordable unmanned aerial vehicles will be a key component of a fresh strategy designed to deter Russian aircraft on the eastern flank of the Alliance. Healey emphasized that reckless and dangerous maneuvers from Russia will be met with NATO responses, including enhanced border security measures.
On September 26, 2025, European ministers discussed the concept of a "drone wall," which involves positioning drones along borders to intercept Russian UAVs or missiles.
In collaboration with Ukraine, the UK has launched a program dubbed Project OCTOPUS, aimed at manufacturing interceptor drones to deter Russian aggression. Healey noted that the UK will utilize cutting-edge production technologies to mass-produce thousands of drones to support Ukraine.
A unique agreement between the UK and Ukraine will allow for shared ownership of intellectual property related to these drones, enabling their deployment in NATO countries. According to Healey, these drones have already proven effective against Shahed drones, and their cost is less than a tenth of similar systems offered by competitors. In the future, this system is expected to be integrated into the UK's air defense strategy for protecting military installations and critical infrastructure.
"We are prepared to show Putin that his aggression and invasions, whether reckless or deliberate, will meet resistance," Healey stressed.
In 2026, a large drone manufacturing facility is set to open in Swindon.