UK universities aided Iranian drone programmes, report claims
Image from video broadcast by Iranian Al-Alam TV, showing a Shahed-136 UAV about to hit a test target in April 2021. (Photo: Al-Alam)
According to media reports, researchers at universities aided the development of Iranian drones.
An investigation by the Jewish Chronicle found that at least 11 UK universities had been involved in producing ‘at least’ 16 studies with potential Iranian military applications.
One Iranian-funded project researched improvements to drone engines to offer speed, altitude and range benefits.
Elsewhere researchers worked with Iran on communications, military aircraft materials and coatings for armour plating.
Related Articles
Iran and Russia weigh risks and rewards from potential UAV deal
Mobility and deception keeping Ukrainian air defence systems intact
Sukhoi Su-35 fighters for Iran to arrive imminently amid controversy over jet's combat success
The JC cited Cranfield University as somewhere that work with Iran had taken place, as well as Cambridge and Imperial College, among others.
One study looked at upgrading the engines used by the Shahed-136 direct attack munition, which has been used extensively by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine,
The UK maintains an arms embargo on Iran and a ban on the supply of missile-related goods and services.
So-called ‘dual-use’ technology is also restricted.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
![More Russian UAS go astray while attacking Ukraine]()
More Russian UAS go astray while attacking Ukraine
This time, the UAS flew into NATO airspace, though there is no evidence that they did so deliberately.
-
![UAVs in multiple classes proliferate in South Korea]()
UAVs in multiple classes proliferate in South Korea
South Korea is rapidly advancing its UAV programmes and counter-drone capabilities in response to increasing threats from North Korea’s unmanned aerial systems.
-
![British Army looks to ‘kamikaze drones’ for future operations]()
British Army looks to ‘kamikaze drones’ for future operations
Inspired by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the British Army has one eye on the future as it develops its ability to operate FPV UAS.
-
![Belarus fighter jet shoots down Russian drone]()
Belarus fighter jet shoots down Russian drone
The confrontation followed a history of untroubled fly-throughs by similar drones en route to Ukraine.
-
![Exail Robotics secures €60 million NATO contract for underwater mine disposal vehicles]()
Exail Robotics secures €60 million NATO contract for underwater mine disposal vehicles
The contract covers disposal and training vehicles for the Belgian and Dutch navies.
