Uncrewed aerial system (UAS) specialist Tekever has launched an upgraded version of its battle-tested AR3 drone, the AR3 Evolution — and it will be built in a new U.K. factory.
The firm, which revealed its new UAS at DSEI 2025 in London last week, described the platform as its most advanced and adaptable variant yet; capable of launching and landing in a 5-square-metre area, the drone can take off from and land upon the flight deck of small naval vessels.
Its predecessor, the AR3, has been deployed in Ukraine since 2022, where it has been used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Today (Tuesday), it was announced the firm would open a new U.K. factory in Swindon next year to produce the UAS and other platforms, including the larger AR5 platform and the AR3 StormShroud drones already in use with the RAF.
Director of Tekever Defence Karl Brew commented:“The site will play a central role in the production of our new AR3 Evo system and in creating up to 1,000 highly skilled jobs over the next five years.”
Sources told Navy Leaders that the AR3 Evo had essentially doubled the performance of the previous model, with an upgraded power supply and reduced weight.
The UAS can be powered by either electric or combustion engines, and launched via its VTOL rotors or catapult if available/preferred to maximise endurance.
The UAS has a maximum take-off weight of up to 30kg including a 6kg payload capacity (up from 4kg), an endurance of up to 22 hours (up from 16kg), and a communications range of more than 140 miles (up from 60 miles).
Payloads are also configurable for a wide range of sensors and effectors including signal intelligence (SIGINT) and electronic warfare (EW) modules, laser designators, and ISR packages.
The firm’s statement claimed the system offered ‘unprecedented maritime flexibility,’ noting: “With survivability and adaptability at its core, the AR3 Evo introduces a unique shipborne capability that significantly extends Tekever’s operational reach and reinforces its position as a trusted partner to naval and maritime security sectors….
“This capability enables persistent, wide-area maritime intelligence and surveillance in areas previously inaccessible.”
CEO of TEKEVER Ricardo Mendes commented: “The AR3 Evo is the culmination of years of battlefield experience, close collaboration with our partners in Ukraine, and relentless innovation.
“It represents not just an evolution of our technology, but a revolution in what small tactical UAVs can achieve — from seamless shipborne operations to advanced autonomy in denied environments.”
- You can read more details on the Tekever website and more about the new Swindon factory on the U.K. Government website