Leonardo DRS has launched a UK-based subsidiary, DRS UK, which is set to begin local production of tactical radios. The company says the new operation will strengthen its support for British defence customers and industrial partners.
New production site and local presence
Described as a purpose-built production facility, the site expands Leonardo DRS’s manufacturing footprint. The company has not disclosed further details about the facility’s capacity, its operational timeline or expected output.
DRS UK is intended to support British requirements for counter-drone capabilities, air defence and active protection systems. It will also serve as a strategic hub for the company’s tactical radio business across Europe.
Leonardo DRS CEO John Baylouny said the investment would enable closer collaboration with UK industry partners and system integrators, while improving the company’s ability to respond to changing operational needs. He highlighted the role of counter-uncrewed-aircraft, air-defence and force-protection capabilities.
European growth through sales and licensing
DRS UK occupies a distinctive position as the European subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, the U.S. arm of Italian defence group Leonardo.
Baylouny has previously said that European countries, like the United States, are seeking to acquire needed equipment quickly and are becoming more flexible about where it comes from. He said capability gaps can be addressed with products from the U.S. or elsewhere, including through licensing arrangements that enable countries to build domestic capabilities.
The company’s approach to European growth therefore combines sales of products and solutions with technology licensing—or a mix of both.
