Pearson Engineering joins forces with Milrem Robotics, Overwatch Aerospace and MSI-Defence System to deliver UK-Specific THeMIS Combat UGV
Leading UK defence manufacturer Pearson Engineering has announced that the company will be working alongside global robotics and autonomous systems manufacturer Milrem Robotics, Overwatch Aerospace Ltd and MSI-Defence Systems Limited (MSI-DS) to launch a UK-specific version of the THeMIS Combat Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) at DSEI 2025.
This strategic partnership will see the four companies develop, test, demonstrate, and produce the combat-proven THeMIS platform in the United Kingdom, specifically designed to meet the needs of customers in the UK.
The UK version of the THeMIS Combat UGV will see Pearson Engineering contribute proven expertise in integrating mission-critical capabilities into armoured platforms, combined with Milrem Robotics’ battlefield-proven THeMIS UGV platform, MSI-Defence Systems’ advanced Terrahawk Remote Weapon Station (RWS) and Overwatch Aerospace’s innovative APEX Unmanned Aerial System (UAS).
This builds on Pearson Engineering’s recent investments in AI, robotics, and advanced manufacturing to develop the next generation of technologies to protect lives, support humanitarian recovery, and strengthen allied defence capabilities.
Ian Bell, CEO of Pearson Engineering Limited, added: “Pearson Engineering will ensure that the THeMIS Combat UGV is adapted perfectly for UK operational environments and that it delivers reliable performance in the most challenging conditions. This partnership highlights our shared commitment to lead the industry into a new era of innovation and safety.”
Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics, added: “The THeMIS has proven its value in multiple theatres worldwide, and this UK-specific variant will take its capabilities even further. By working with trusted British partners, we deliver an advanced and mission-ready combat system and ensure that development, testing, and production happen here in the UK, creating local value and strengthening domestic defence capabilities.”
Drew Michael, CEO of Overwatch Aerospace Ltd, said: “Integrating our APEX UAS into the THeMIS Combat UGV introduces a completely new dimension to battlefield awareness and adaptability. By merging unmanned ground and aerial capabilities into a unified system, we enable forces to operate more effectively, with improved situational awareness and lower risk to personnel. This collaboration ensures our innovation directly aligns with UK defence priorities.”
Russell Gregory, Head of Strategy and Future Programmes at MSI-Defence Systems, stated: “Our Terrahawk RWS offers precision firepower and exceptional situational awareness in a package designed for rapid integration. Partnering with Milrem Robotics, Overwatch Aerospace, and Pearson Engineering on this UK-focused UGV demonstrates how the best of British engineering, combined with proven international platforms, can deliver world-class capability to the British Army.”
The programme will now move into a comprehensive development and trial phase, with the goal of delivering a deployable, scalable, and enduring robotic combat solution for the British Army.
From left to right: Ian Bell, Group CEO at Pearson Engineering, Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics, John Meldrum, CEO of MSI-Defence Systems and Drew Michael, CEO of Overwatch Aerospace Ltd.
