Council representatives and North Swindon MP Will Stone, attended the global aviation event to promote Swindon as a destination for advanced manufacturing, autonomous systems and defence technology.
The visit forms part of the authority’s wider strategy to strengthen the town’s position within the industry by building on its manufacturing heritage and attracting aerospace and defence businesses.
One of the major announcements at the airshow came from TEKEVER, which unveiled its new AR6 heavy-lift autonomous aircraft. The company has confirmed the aircraft will be manufactured at its Swindon facility.
The AR6 is designed to carry payloads of more than 200kg across distances of up to 500km. It has potential uses in both civilian and military operations, including disaster relief, casualty support, industry and renewable energy projects.
Will Stone, North Swindon MP, said:
“The AR6 will be built in Swindon by the people of Swindon. Our town is supporting both civilian and military missions across the globe, including disaster relief and casualty support.
“I’m incredibly proud to have worked with TEKEVER over the last 18 months. They were one of the first drone companies I met and trusted in my vision to help establish a drone hub in Swindon.
“They’re a driving force in the market, supporting marine biologists, the European Space Agency and industry, while continuing to develop technologies that contribute to the wider green economy.”
The council said Swindon has continued to strengthen its position within the sector through links with the Defence Academy at Shrivenham, investment from advanced composites manufacturer iCOMAT and collaboration with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
During the airshow, members of the council’s inward investment team met aerospace, defence and technology firms from the UK and overseas to present Swindon’s defence sector proposition.
The delegation also held talks with organisations already investing in the town, including TEKEVER, iCOMAT and UKRI, as part of efforts to encourage further investment.
Councillor Gary Sumner, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said:
“Farnborough provides a unique opportunity to put Swindon in front of companies from across the globe and demonstrate why our borough is such an attractive place to invest.
“We want more businesses to recognise what those already operating here have discovered and that Swindon offers the location, talent, infrastructure and ambition needed to support long-term growth.
“Our focus is firmly on attracting new investment, creating high-quality jobs for residents and ensuring Swindon continues to strengthen its reputation as a centre for advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defence.”
The council believes the town’s established engineering base, growing defence links and investment in advanced manufacturing are helping to raise Swindon’s profile within the aerospace sector.
Following the airshow, the inward investment team will continue discussions with prospective investors and industry leaders in a bid to secure further opportunities for the borough.
