Rotron Aerospace has unveiled its Defendor Uncrewed Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2025 exhibition, according to the company. The Defendor is designed to enhance sovereign capabilities in one-way effector missions, offering a scalable and cost-efficient strike option for modern military operations.

The company mentioned that the Defendor features the innovative R350-FDS (Fan Drive System), which provides extended endurance and high subsonic speed. This propulsion system allows the UCAV to achieve significantly longer flight durations compared with traditional turbojet designs, while maintaining maneuverability for tactical operations.

According to Rotron, the Defendor emphasizes affordability and simplified supply chains, enabling rapid production and deployment. Its design supports a variety of roles, including expendable strike missions, swarm tactics, and integration into layered air defense strategies.

Rotron Aerospace CEO, Alex Head, highlighted that the Defendor strengthens the UK’s sovereign defense capabilities. He noted that the platform’s design philosophy balances cost-effectiveness with operational mass, providing strategic options for UK and allied forces.

The company added that further flight trials are planned for late 2025, including demonstrations of strike capabilities and electronic warfare integration. Rotron indicated that the Defendor could appeal to both the UK Ministry of Defence and allied export markets seeking resilient and interoperable UCAV solutions.