UK downselects bidders for Apache loyal wingman programme

A pair of British Army AH-64E Apache helicopter gunships. The service intends to team the platform with an unmanned ‘loyal wingman' from 2030. (Janes/Gareth Jennings)

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has downselected seven companies to develop and build an unmanned ‘loyal wingman' for the British Army's Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter.

Announced by the MoD on 24 January, the downselected will see Anduril, BAE Systems, Leonardo, Lockheed Martin UK, Syos, Tekever, and Thales compete to deliver on the UK's effort to develop a Land Autonomous Collaborative Platform (ACP) under Project Nyx.

“Seven industry partners have been invited to bring forward their designs for the futuristic drones, which will accompany British Army helicopters in future battles. Known as Project Nyx, the programme is an innovative approach to work alongside industry to advance development of uncrewed air systems to operate alongside Apache attack helicopters,” the MoD said. “When completed the drones will be able to function as ‘loyal wingmen', working alongside crewed Apache attack helicopters to perform a variety of complex tasks such as reconnaissance and surveillance in contested areas, strike, and target acquisition and electronic warfare.”

In November 2025, the MoD set out its Project Nyx to develop and demonstrate an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) that pairs with the AH-64E as a Land ACP. A previous solicitation for an industry day event held in August 2025 suggested a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) platform capable of carrying payloads in excess of 200 kg.