An Oxford-based business has made a major breakthrough in drone engineering.
Argive, owned by Alloyed Ltd, has developed two new microturbines using additive manufacturing, marking a significant step in the UK’s capabilities to produce critical technology.
Microturbines are used in drone interceptors, man-portable power generators, and cruise missiles.
Demand for them has surged since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Traditionally produced by just a handful of small manufacturers worldwide, Argive can now design, test, and begin mass production of sovereign turbines in just 10 weeks.
While companies in China and the US are investing heavily in similar technology, they have not yet achieved scalable production.
The Oxford-based company can produce hundreds to thousands of turbines each month in the UK, supported by a near shore supply chain.
This capacity enables rapid redesign and scaling to meet immediate needs across sectors, from defence to disaster relief.
Following successful flight tests, Argive’s 3D-printed A300 microturbine will support the independent propulsion capability of MGI Engineering’s unmanned SkyShark one-way effector drone.
Rob Joles, commercial director at Argive, said: "The successful development and test of our new microturbines demonstrates the capacity of UK manufacturing to offer world-class performance at a reduced cost.
"This is critical infrastructure for our national security, and Argive is at the forefront of driving forward the nation’s manufacturing capabilities.
"We have demonstrated that a microturbine can be designed, prototyped and tested within weeks, with the potential to roll out development on a rapid scale critical for high-performance drone missions."
The company has also completed a successful ground test of the larger A1100 turbine, designed for larger platforms.
The A1100 uses Alloyed’s nickel superalloy ABD-900AM, which strengthens and lightens the engine’s hot components.
The 3D-printed design reduces the number of parts, making the turbine lighter, more efficient, and cost-effective.
High performance additive manufactured techniques reduce the reliance on traditional processes such as casting and machining, and enable the design of lightweight turbines at low cost which can be rapidly deployed.
This will play a significant role in the ease and speed at which engine designs can be tailored to meet customer performance requirements, including thrust, cruise efficiency, and engine size.
Mike Gascoyne, CEO of MGI Engineering, said: "Through the integration of the A300 turbine into SkyShark, we have demonstrated how compact, lightweight and fuel-efficient drones can be developed at a faster speed and scale than ever before.
"The UK has the potential to be a leader in advanced manufacturing, and these new turbines are a testament to the country’s capabilities."
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