The Spectrum building in West Swindon is being redeveloped after Portuguese defence company TEKEVER confirmed last September it would base a new manufacturing operation there, creating hundreds of jobs.
The firm selected Swindon as the location for the facility and also outlined plans to work with local schools and colleges to support future careers in engineering and technology.
Since the announcement, extensive work has been carried out inside the building, including a full internal strip out. A planning application has also been submitted to Swindon Borough Council to allow the site to operate as a drone manufacturing plant.
Council leader Jim Robbins visited the site on Monday 20th January to see progress first hand. He met TEKEVER chief executive Ricardo Mendes and members of the company’s senior team.
During the visit, the company said it is aiming to begin producing drones at the Swindon site later this year.
TEKEVER has previously said the town’s growing reputation for advanced technology and drone development influenced its decision to invest in Swindon.
The council’s inward investment team has been working alongside Will Stone to help build a defence and drone technology cluster in the borough.
Several other firms have announced plans to expand their presence locally, including Flyby Technology, Munin Dynamics and STARK.
Speaking after the visit, Councillor Robbins said it was positive to see how quickly the project is moving forward.
“It was great to welcome Ricardo and his team to Swindon and to hear that they plan to be up and running making drones later in the year,” he said.
“This is fantastic news, not just in terms of the jobs and the opportunities that will be created for young people in the borough, but also the positive impact this will have on the local supply chain.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the first drones come off the production line as we cement our reputation as the number one drone manufacturing hub in the UK.”
