SDO Associates has officially launched the Uncrewed Systems Network (USN), with STARK as the Title Sponsor, a new national initiative designed to build a connected, sustainable and industry-led uncrewed systems ecosystem for the United Kingdom.
Developed in response to growing defence requirements, rapid advances in autonomous technologies and the increasing importance of uncrewed capability across land, air and maritime domains, the USN aims to bring together government, industry, academia and investors to address the barriers currently limiting the growth and adoption of uncrewed systems in the UK.
The initiative aligns with wider UK defence and innovation priorities and is founded on a simple mission: Inform, Engage, Collaborate and Deliver.
The need for a coordinated national approach to uncrewed systems has become increasingly apparent as the character of modern warfare continues to evolve and as the UK seeks to strengthen sovereign capability, improve supply chain resilience and accelerate innovation.
SDO Associates established the Uncrewed Systems Network to create a forum where stakeholders from across the sector can work together to identify challenges, share expertise, showcase capabilities and develop practical recommendations that support long-term growth.
“Uncrewed systems are no longer an emerging capability; they are becoming a fundamental element of future defence and security operations,” said Stu Olden, CEO and Founder of SDO Associates.
“The UK has exceptional companies, technologies and expertise, but the ecosystem remains fragmented. We are proud to be working with STARK to bring forward the Uncrewed Systems Network, which has been created to bring together industry, government, academia and investors to identify barriers, develop solutions and help build a stronger and more connected national capability.”
The USN will deliver a series of workstreams throughout the year, covering the critical areas required to develop a sustainable UK uncrewed systems ecosystem.
These include:
Logistics & Supply Chain – 11th June 2026
Technology – 4 September 2026
Skills & People – 2 October 2026
Testing & Certification – 3 November 2026
Funding, Investment & Export – 3 December 2026
Each workstream consists of a launch event followed by collaborative workshops involving industry and government stakeholders, with findings contributing to a final white paper containing recommendations for future policy, investment and capability development.
The first event in the programme, the Logistics & Supply Chain workstream, brought together a range of representatives from government, defence, industry and the wider supply chain to examine the resilience and scalability of the UK’s uncrewed systems supply base. Discussions focused on sovereign capability, supply chain security, manufacturing capacity and long-term sustainment requirements.
The launch of the USN also reflects the growing importance of Swindon within the UK defence and autonomous systems landscape.
Recent announcements surrounding the development of the Uncrewed Systems Centre and new testing facilities have reinforced Swindon’s position as an emerging hub for uncrewed technologies. The town is increasingly attracting defence and technology businesses, such as, STARK, TEKEVER, Munin Dynamics and FlyBy, creating new opportunities for investment, collaboration and skilled employment.
“Swindon is quickly establishing itself as a centre for advanced engineering, defence innovation and uncrewed systems,” said Lydia Ward, Marketing and Communications Manager at SDO Associates.
“The USN provides an opportunity to connect national capability with local expertise. By bringing these conversations to Swindon, we can help support the growth of the sector while showcasing the exceptional organisations, skills and innovation already here in the region.”
The remaining USN events will continue throughout the year, with the Technology, Skills & People, Testing & Certification, and Funding, Investment & Export workstreams all scheduled to take place at the STEAM Museum in Swindon. Exhibitor and delegate tickets are available and only a few sponsorship opportunities remain.
For further information on the Uncrewed Systems Network and upcoming events, please visit https://sdoassociates.com/usn/
