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UK Opens Europe's Largest Drone Testing Hub in Swindon

6/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The UK Ministry of Defence opened the 370-acre Panattoni Park complex in Swindon, creating Europe’s largest uncrewed-systems testing site.
Will Stone, MP for Swindon, said the centre will boost town investment and support national security.
Brigadier Stu Nasse, head of the UK Drone Coalition, highlighted the skilled workforce, infrastructure and nearby defence sites as reasons for locating drone firms and future operators Stark, Tekever and Icomat at Panattoni Park.

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Story summary

The UK Ministry of Defence opened the 370-acre Panattoni Park complex in Swindon, creating Europe’s largest uncrewed-systems testing site.
Will Stone, MP for Swindon, said the centre will boost town investment and support national security.
Brigadier Stu Nasse, head of the UK Drone Coalition, highlighted the skilled workforce, infrastructure and nearby defence sites as reasons for locating drone firms and future operators Stark, Tekever and Icomat at Panattoni Park.