UK launches Project VANQUISH to trial jet-powered carrier 'loyal wingman' from Queen Elizabeth-class carriers

The UK Ministry of Defence has launched Project VANQUISH, seeking industry proposals for a jet‑powered Fixed‑Wing Short Take‑Off and Landing Autonomous Collaborative Platform to operate from Queen Elizabeth‑class carriers. A technical demonstration is planned next year to inform the Royal Navy's Hybrid Air Wing; roles envisaged include strike and refuelling.

Discovered 2025-10-04T08:53:51.601593-07:00 | 2025-10-04T08:53:51.601593-07:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

  • Project VANQUISH formalises a rapid UK push to field a carrier‑launched, jet‑powered FW STOL autonomous ‘‘loyal wingman’’ demonstrator — the MoD has issued market engagement and plans a technical demonstration next year to inform Hybrid Air Wing procurement. See related UK loyal‑wingman efforts here: https://hype.aero/?story=043d2773-beb5-41b4-bede-14aba695cb42
  • The programme aligns the Royal Navy with allied carrier uncrewed initiatives and will increase competition among primes and UAS specialists for ship‑integrated combat and support roles; compare recent US carrier CCA concept awards: https://hype.aero/?story=aa21eb79-2f9d-4ad2-87c5-d6b90b0583cd
  • Market engagement opens immediate opportunities (design, deck handling, C2, sustainment) and follows broader naval solicitations for uncrewed maritime systems, signalling demand for integrated ship‑air solutions: https://hype.aero/?story=928a0787-5e8e-42f0-a187-6af896eac6a3

Reported By

Shephard Media defence-industry.eu Aviacionline Aviation Week Janes Aerospace Testing Intnl
Sources Tracked
11
First Seen
2025-10-04T08:53:51.601593-07:00
Latest Update
2025-10-07T03:50:21.453650-07:00
Coverage
Defense

Sources

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