New safety containment technology for autonomous Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) has been successfully proven in a demonstration as part of the RAF Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO) Project CURBER. Containment ensures a drone remains within a safe and predefined area during flight, even in cases of technical malfunctions or unexpected circumstances.
Project CURBER is a joint venture between the RAF RCO and industry to advance autonomous capabilities through testing and evaluating use cases. The demonstration was led by an expert consortium from Frazer-Nash Consultancy, BlueBear Systems Research – A Saab Company, Safety Airworthiness & Engineering (SAE) and Sagentia Aviation (formerly Osprey Consulting Services Ltd).
The CURBER autonomy containment technology was developed over 18 months and then integrated with Blue Bear’s autonomous systems for a flying demonstration to evidence safe UAS containment and intra-swarm deconfliction. The data gathered will help to mature autonomous capability for the RAF as well as wider Defence.
UAS capability is critical for modern defence
Developing and integrating autonomous UAS capability is critical for modern defence. The recent Strategic Defence Review 2025 highlighted a major focus shift towards autonomous UAS as part of the UK’s defence modernisation. The RAF’s Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP) strategy also outlines how the RAF plans to integrate autonomous systems into frontline service over the next decade.
The trial’s success helps to ensure safe autonomous flight and operational flexibility in complex environments and improve the resilience of this essential military asset.
An RAF spokesperson said: “Autonomous UAS provides distinct operational advantage and enhances protection for our forces. The recent trial for Project CURBER gives us the proven approaches we need to advance a robust and effective future capability.”
To find out more contact Jack Tawney, Business Manager at Frazer-Nash – jack.tawney@fnc.co.uk
