Major £70M drive to grow UK cadet forces by 40,000 with drone pilot training and STEM skills

The UK Government has announced a major expansion of the Armed Forces Cadets, pledging £70 million to increase membership across the United Kingdom by 30% by 2030 – the equivalent of more than 40,000 new cadets across the country.

The new ‘30 by 30’ campaign, unveiled today (Wednesday 20 August), forms part of the Government’s Strategic Defence Review and aims to open up cadet opportunities to a new generation of young people.

Defence chiefs say the initiative will break down barriers to opportunity, boost vital STEM skills and create life-changing prospects for young people from all backgrounds.

RAF Air Cadets to lead on drone pilot qualifications

In a first for a British military youth organisation, the RAF Air Cadets will be certified to train young people in official drone piloting qualifications once the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approves their training manual.

The move will allow cadets to gain industry-recognised, transferable qualifications in an area of rapidly growing demand.

The expansion will also see new joint Army and RAF Air Cadet Centres built across the UK, adding to the five already opened and 12 currently under construction.

Government sets out wider cadet reforms

The programme includes:

• Recruiting more adult volunteers, with a streamlined process and fast-track pathway for veterans.

• Appointing a new National Cadet Champion to promote cadet opportunities and inspire participation.

• Boosting STEM opportunities, with hands-on training in drone and submersible technologies, as well as advanced cyber skills.

• Greater military support, giving regular and reserve personnel more opportunities to work with cadet units.

Minister: “Cadets transform futures”

Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns MP, said:

“Every young person deserves the chance to discover their potential, regardless of their postcode or family income.

“The cadet experience doesn’t just build character – it transforms futures, helping young people build confidence, develop skills and meet new people.

The government is kickstarting a new era for the cadets through this major expansion, backed by £70 million of extra funding.”

Independent studies have shown that cadet membership improves school attendance, behaviour, and progression to university or employment, with an especially powerful impact on young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Announcement made at national cadet camp

The announcement came as Minister Carns attended the National Air & Space Camp 2025, where cadets experienced flying displays featuring Typhoon jets, Lightning aircraft and Spitfires.

The event also hosted a careers fair with more than 60 major employers, giving young people direct access to future job opportunities.

The Government says the investment will “supercharge” opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop technical expertise and shape their future career paths.