Harmattan AI has held talks about becoming part of Swindon’s developing drone and autonomous systems cluster, according to the town’s MP.
Will Stone said he met company representative Mikey O’Mahoney to discuss potential plans.
Posting on LinkedIn, Mr Stone wrote:
“Great to meet Mikey O’Mahoney from Harmattan AI, a fascinating drone company doing impressive work with the UK Armed Forces. They’re looking to expand into Swindon and become part of the local defence and tech ecosystem, and I’m fully behind their vision.”
Founded in 2024, Harmattan AI develops autonomous military systems including surveillance drones, strike drones, electronic warfare technology and AI-powered command platforms.
The company states that its mission is to build “autonomous warfare” systems for the armed forces of “liberal democracies and their allies”.
Details of any potential move to Swindon have not been confirmed. However, the approach adds to growing signs that Swindon is becoming a focal point for defence manufacturing and drone technology.
In recent months, the town has secured a major manufacturing facility from TEKEVER linked to RAF drone programmes. German loitering munition manufacturer STARK has also announced expansion plans connected to Swindon. British drone firm FLYBY has confirmed investment in the area.
Much of the activity centres around the former Honda site and surrounding industrial areas, where defence and advanced manufacturing businesses are increasingly establishing operations.
Harmattan AI has attracted international attention since launching. Reports earlier this year suggested French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation led a $200 million funding round valuing the firm at around $1.4 billion.
The company is also reported to hold contracts connected to both French and British defence sectors.
If confirmed, a move into Swindon would further strengthen the town’s ambition to become a national centre for drone production, testing and autonomous defence technology.
