The UK is set to launch a groundbreaking defense-focused drone engineering degree, aimed at training the next generation of specialists in military technology. The three-year program, offered by the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) in Hereford, England, is backed by a £240,000 ($322,290) investment from the British Army. This initiative will train 15 civilian students and up to five soldiers annually in military drone systems and related technologies.
The program is designed to equip students with specialist skills for emerging defense needs, creating faster pathways into roles involving uncrewed systems, autonomy, and other technologies central to modern military operations. Students will complete the program more quickly than standard engineering degrees, enabling earlier entry into defense technology roles. Expressions of interest for prospective students are now open for the September 2026 intake.
According to the UK government, the course responds to lessons from the conflict in Ukraine, addressing the growing threat posed by uncrewed systems and strengthening London’s ability to detect, deter, and counter drone incursions over military sites.
“This program is a direct response to the evolving nature of modern warfare,” said a spokesperson for the UK government. “The lessons from Ukraine have shown us the critical importance of uncrewed systems in both offensive and defensive operations. This degree will ensure that we have the skilled personnel necessary to meet these challenges head-on.”
The new degree program comes as the UK intensifies its focus on unmanned technologies, both for battlefield use and counter-drone defense. In November last year, the British Army tested Chinese-made 3D printers during exercises in Kenya to produce tactical unmanned systems on-site. This capability is crucial for rapid deployment and adaptability in various operational environments.
In October 2025, Kyiv and London agreed to co-produce thousands of Octopus-100 interceptor drones, marking the first time a Ukrainian combat unmanned aerial vehicle will be manufactured inside a NATO member state. This collaboration underscores the strategic importance of unmanned systems in modern defense strategies.
Moreover, earlier last year, British soldiers were reportedly set to receive broader rules of engagement allowing them to shoot down drones targeting military bases. This reflects heightened alarm over potential Russian-linked activity. Until now, personnel have been largely limited to non-lethal measures such as diversion or GPS disruption.
“This degree program is not just about training engineers; it’s about securing our future in an increasingly complex and technologically advanced battlefield,” said a senior official from the British Army. “By focusing on unmanned systems, we are ensuring that our forces are equipped with the latest technology and tactics to counter emerging threats effectively.”
The UK’s commitment to advancing its capabilities in unmanned technologies is evident in its strategic investments and collaborations. The new drone engineering degree at NMITE is a pivotal step in this direction, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of defense innovation and technology. As the threat landscape evolves, so too must the skills and capabilities of those tasked with protecting national security. This program is a proactive measure to meet these challenges and secure a safer future.