Portsmouth North MP Amanda Martin visits Windracers to see home-grown aerospace innovation

HAMPSHIRE (UK) – 29 SEPTEMBER – Portsmouth North MP Amanda Martin has visited British civil and defence drone manufacturer Windracers to learn how the company is creating skilled jobs and pioneering heavy-lift drone technology.

MP Amanda Martin toured the expanded factory floor, met engineers at different stages of their careers, and spoke with Windracers Group Chairman and Founder Stephen Wright about how the business is combining global innovation with regional opportunity.

During the visit, she saw Windracers ULTRA, a long-distance, heavy-lift, dual-use drone that flies autonomously and can carry up to 150kg over distances of up to 1,000km. The aircraft has already flown missions in Antarctica, North America and Europe, with upcoming deployments planned in Africa.

MP Amanda Martin said: “Windracers is a fantastic example of how British innovation can power both our national security and our regional economy. It was fantastic to meet the team and see first-hand the cutting-edge technology being developed here – and the skilled jobs it’s creating.

“It’s clear to me the role companies like this will play in delivering the Government’s mission to make defence an engine for growth. From investing in new technology to supporting young engineers at the start of their careers, Windracers is showing what’s possible when we back British industry.”

The visit came shortly after Windracers received formal approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the Civil Aviation Authority Norway for the UK’s first civil unmanned aerial system (UAS) international flight – marking a major milestone in drone advancements and airspace integration.

Windracers Group Chairman and Founder Stephen Wright said: “We were delighted to welcome Amanda and show her how a British company is pushing the boundaries of autonomous flight. Her passion for education and opportunity matches our own belief that innovation must go hand in hand with developing people and skills in the region.”

Windracers continues to demonstrate how UK-developed aerospace technology can create global impact, while driving local opportunity.