Labour MPs Lloyd Hatton and Jessica Toale have welcomed a share of £20 million in government funding for drone development in the South West.
The investment will support a new Defence Drone Cluster across Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.
Funding from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and Ministry of Defence will focus on research, development and testing of autonomous drone technology.
Dorset Innovation Park is expected to play a key role, helping attract defence firms and create skilled jobs.
The scheme will also support universities and colleges, boosting training in engineering and digital skills.
MPs say the investment could strengthen the UK’s position as a leader in drone technology while creating long-term economic opportunities in Dorset.
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