From Legacy to Innovation: German Firm STARK Brings Drone Manufacturing to Swindon

A German defence technology company, STARK, is poised to make significant strides in the UK by establishing its first production facility outside Germany in Swindon, Wiltshire. This 3,700 sq m (40,000 sq ft) facility is set to generate over 100 skilled jobs, marking a pivotal moment for local defence manufacturing revival. Local MP Will Stone expressed pride in STARK’s decision, highlighting Swindon’s historical contributions to military manufacturing, notably the production of the famous Supermarine Spitfire during World War II.

STARK UK’s Managing Director Mike Armstrong underscored the partnership between the UK and Germany as being rooted in technological leadership, asserting that the new factory will help ‘define the battlefields of the future’ by enhancing rapid and scalable production capabilities. Armstrong emphasized the need for resilient supply chains across Europe to ensure national security and defence effectiveness.

The company specializes in unmanned weapon systems for NATO, with its flagship product, the ’Virtus’ loitering munition system, featuring vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities, a strike radius of up to 100km (62 miles), and a 5kg weapons payload. This initiative not only seeks to modernize British defence manufacturing but also aims to secure Swindon’s future as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation.

Swindon Borough Council leader Jim Robbins applauded this investment as a significant step towards establishing the town as a national leader in defence manufacturing. He expressed enthusiasm about the development of cutting-edge UAV technology in Swindon, foreshadowing this as just the beginning of a new era for the town’s industrial landscape.

The announcement arrives in the context of strengthening UK-Germany relations regarding defence and security, which has been formalized through the Trinity House Agreement established in 2024. With all these developments, STARK’s new venture is set to contribute significantly to national security and economic growth in the region.