The Westcott Drone Test and Development Centre (DTDC), launched in 2023 by the Satellite Applications Catapult, is undergoing a significant upgrade to enhance its capacity and capabilities.

These improvements will enable drone companies to test their products and solutions at earlier stages of development within a safe and controlled environment.

Backed by £1.4 million in funding from the Buckinghamshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) – now managed by the Buckinghamshire Growth Board – the upgrades will allow the DTDC to support a wider range of drone companies and accelerate the market readiness of innovative solutions.

The expansion reflects the increasing demand for drone operations, supporting both UK and global flight operations. As part of Westcott’s commitment to innovation, the DTDC aims to develop world-class drone services and reinforce Buckinghamshire’s position as a leader in drone and space technology.

Key Facility Upgrades Include

Drone cage flight enclosure
Tethered drone testing area
Multipurpose drone platform
Expanded workshop spaces
Sensor test ranges
Drone Training Academy

Buckinghamshire Council Leader Martin Tett highlighted the centre’s role in shaping the future of private and commercial aviation, reinforcing the county’s position as a global hub for drone technology. Richard Lowe, Chief Technology Officer of Satellite Applications Catapult, emphasised that the upgrades would provide additional support for companies developing next-generation drone technology, particularly in safe testing environments.

Located on a former RAF base, the DTDC offers a 270m runway, four landing pads for vertical, or vertical to horizontal take-off, and multiple real-world flying areas. Future developments include the integration of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) capabilities, further advancing the UK’s drone ecosystem.

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28 February 2025