Proteus Takes Flight — A Major Milestone for UK Defence
The Royal Navy has made history with its first autonomous full-size helicopter, named Proteus, completing a successful maiden flight on 16 January 2026 from Predannack Airfield in Cornwall. This achievement marks a significant leap forward in British aviation and defence innovation.
Designed and built by Leonardo under a £60 million programme supporting 100 skilled UK jobs, Proteus is part of the Royal Navy’s vision for a future ‘New Hybrid Navy’ where autonomous and crewed aircraft operate together.
Proteus differs from smaller drones already in service by being one of the world’s first full-size autonomous helicopters. Instead of a traditional cockpit, it uses advanced sensors and software to understand its environment, make decisions and control flight independently, while test pilots monitor from the ground.
With the ability to carry more than one tonne of payload, Proteus can take on a range of demanding missions. These include anti-submarine warfare, sea patrols, surveillance and support tasks that free up crewed aircraft for other roles.
Engineers, navy officials and industry partners watched enthusiastically as Proteus lifted off after comprehensive ground trials at Leonardo’s Yeovil facility. The successful flight not only fulfils strategic commitments laid out in the UK’s recent Strategic Defence Review but also shows how autonomous systems can enhance Britain’s ability to protect its seas and NATO allies.
According to Royal Navy leaders, this milestone demonstrates the UK’s commitment to technological innovation, boosting operational effectiveness in complex environments without putting personnel at unnecessary risk.
