MBDA has demonstrated its continued confidence in innovative drone manufacturer, Hybrid Drones Limited, by opting to invest further capital to retain its stake in the company. 

Last year, MBDA invested in Hybrid Drones Ltd, a UK SME that produces the pioneering hybrid Jet-Electric HYDRA-400 uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV). This was one of the first investments by MBDA in a UK SME, demonstrating commitment to supporting national cutting-edge defence technologies.

In a second funding round this year, MBDA opted to follow-on its investment, retaining its stake as a shareholder of Hybrid Drones Limited. 

MBDA’s support for Hybrid Drones Ltd is not just financial – it is underpinned by a much more collaborative approach. Leveraging decades of experience within the defence sector, MBDA is working in partnership with Hybrid Drones Ltd to develop the business, navigating the complex defence ecosystem to achieve long term growth. This support has included sharing expertise from across MBDA’s business, including, technical and engineering, commercial support, legal, and finance. 

The summer of 2026 coincides with exciting developments in the partnership, not least the prominence of the platform as the backdrop for new Secretary of State for Defence, Dan Jarvis’ speech at the Uncrewed Systems Centre on 12 June. 

With a history of collaboration, MBDA is seeking to demonstrate the model by which it can support UK SMEs as they develop innovative new technologies. 

Vote of confidence 

Suzanne Jude, Senior Vice President - Sales & Business Development at MBDA, said: 

“Sustaining MBDA’s investment in Hybrid Drones Limited is a clear vote of confidence in the way this partnership is developing. As a shareholder in the company, our commitment goes far beyond just financial support – it means sharing our expertise and developing a thriving SME who can deliver innovative technologies for our armed forces.”

Innovative new technology 

The HYDRA-400 drone marked its first flight in March 2026, and MBDA is working with Hybrid Drones Limited on weaponizing the platform. With a modular design and a payload capacity of up to 400kg, the HYDRA-400 has a myriad of military, operational, and dual use functions. The platform can employ tactical weapons, conduct ship-to-ship transfer, last mile logistics, and even logistical and casualty evacuation roles. Compact and portable, Hydra can be transported in the back of a flatbed truck and assembled ready for flight in minutes. Hydra is configurable as fully electric or as a hybrid using two, four or six jets.