Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Archer Aviation Establishes UK Aerospace Engineering Hub
U.S. company has recruited Vertical Aerospace’s engineering director
Archer Anduril GKN Aerospace
Archer Aviation is partnered with Anduril and GKN Aerospace on British defense projects.

Archer Aviation has confirmed plans to establish an engineering operation in the UK. On December 16, the U.S.-based eVTOL aircraft developer said the new unit will initially focus its efforts on joint work with Anduril and GKN Aerospace for the British Army’s Project NYX drone development and the UK Ministry of Defence’s Land Autonomous Collaborative Platform.

To further strengthen its presence in the UK, Archer has recruited Limhi Somerville, who for the past six years has been director of engineering with rival eVTOL manufacturer Vertical Aerospace. Archer did not say what position Somerville will hold when he joins the company in early 2026. He previously held engineering and research roles at Jaguar Land Rover and the University of Warwick.

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