The Royal Navy’s 700X Naval Air Squadron (NAS) is conducting trials of Ghost UAS single-rotor drones in Norway, working alongside the Commando Logistic Regiment (CLR).

The aim is to evaluate the drones’ capability in scouting routes and identifying vulnerable points in challenging Arctic conditions.

The Commando Logistic Regiment, which provides essential support to front-line Commando units, is testing how the Ghost UAS can enhance operational awareness in extreme environments. These drones offer real-time intelligence, helping forces navigate complex terrain and prepare for potential threats.

The Ghost UAS being trialled in Norway is part of Anduril Industries’ Ghost-X platform, the latest variant of its autonomous uncrewed aircraft system (UAS). Designed for reconnaissance, security, and force protection, Ghost-X builds upon over 1,000 operational flight hours, including with the Ministry of Defence.

Featuring a modular and highly adaptable design, the drone leverages Anduril’s Lattice software to automate mission planning, airspace management, and flight operations, reducing the workload for operators. Its upgraded propulsion system supports a dual-battery configuration, extending flight time to 75 minutes and boosting payload capacity to 9 kg.

The drone’s expanded operational range of 25 km, alongside new electro-optic and infrared gimbals, encoded laser options, and a vision-based navigation module, ensures its effectiveness in GPS-denied environments.

The ‘X’ in 700X NAS stands for ‘experimental’, reflecting its role in pioneering remote-piloted flight systems within the Royal Navy. The squadron is at the forefront of drone innovation, developing technology that can be integrated into future Commando operations.

George Allison
George Allison
George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
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8 COMMENTS

  1. I think the MoD may hold the world record for Drone testing, I’m confident is saying that the number of drone tests and programs far outstrips the number of actual drones in UK service.

    • I­’m­ m­a­k­i­n­g­ o­v­e­r­ $20k­ a­ m­o­n­t­h­ w­o­r­k­i­n­g­ p­a­r­t­ t­i­m­e­. i­ k­e­p­t­ h­e­a­r­i­n­g­ o­t­h­e­r­ p­e­o­p­l­e­ t­e­l­l­ m­e­ h­o­w­ m­u­c­h­ m­o­n­e­y­ t­h­e­y­ c­a­n­ m­a­k­e­ o­n­l­i­n­e­ s­o­ i­ d­e­c­i­d­e­d­ t­o­ l­o­o­k­ i­n­t­o­ i­t­. w­e­l­l­, i­t­ w­a­s­ a­l­l­ t­r­u­e­ a­n­d­ h­a­s­ t­o­t­a­l­l­y­ c­h­a­n­g­e­d­ m­y­ l­i­f­e­. t­h­i­s­ i­s­

      w­h­a­t­ i­ d­o­….. 𝐖𝐰𝐰.𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐭𝟏.𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞/

  2. Having lots of tests iIs fine as in reality drone tec changes so often this will be an area that probably needs constant evaluation and testing of products…BUT the wider armed forces need to have experience in operational use of drones as an everyday part of their jobs..and these tests and evaluations mean the bulk of the army and navy are not getting practice in drone warfare all the time..essentially the army and navy need to be buying a large number of cheap drones for everyday practice and operations..so the army formations and even down to squad level are using and thinking about drones every day..the done is now going to be a ubiquitous part of any battle not some specialist ISTAR asset or RAF strike platform. But they need to be costed that they are essentially used and expired on an almost annual basis..so driving forward the Uk industry, capability and army and navies operational skills and knowledge..after all its practice practice practice..not just test test test.

  3. 9kg payload would give good options as bomber drones.
    The key seems to be having enough components such as motors in storage and capacity to make them and large numbers of 3D printers so civilian small factories, workshops and fabrication facilities can turn out 1000s a month in a war.
    The keep trialling new ones. Wouldn’t standard “chassis” , rotors and motors be better and then the brains and sensors can be updated as needed?

  4. A long running old chestnut of mine.
    Never ending “informing decisions” that are never made before the next one arrives. Posse will appreciate that.

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