GKN Aerospace unveils UAV turbojet featuring Additive Manufacturing
GKN Aerospace, headquartered in Birmingham, UK, has unveiled a full-scale mock-up of the uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) demonstrator and the turbojet engine being developed under a collaborative programme with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).
Joakim Andersson, President Engines, GKN Aerospace, told Warsight that a significant proportion of the powerplant had been additively manufactured, with multiple AM and fabrication techniques used in its production.
The initiative was announced in November 2025 with the objective of developing a UAV demonstrator and dedicated turbojet engine within 18 months. The project brings together expertise in propulsion, aerostructures and systems integration from Sweden, the Netherlands, and the UK.
“One year ago, this was an idea and an ambition,” added Andersson. “Today, we are unveiling the first tangible result of that work. That achievement reflects close collaboration with FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces and the combined expertise of teams across GKN Aerospace.”
The demonstrator has been developed as a flexible platform for testing and evaluation, supporting the exploration of future uncrewed aviation technologies while providing valuable experience in how complex aerospace systems can be developed, integrated and manufactured on accelerated timelines.
Sara Eklöf, Senior Vice President Government Solutions, GKN Aerospace, added, “This milestone demonstrates what can be achieved when engineering, manufacturing and customer teams work towards a common goal. The experience gained will be valuable as the programme moves into its next phase.”
