Other partners involved in Phase 1 of the Mantis programme include the Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom), Rolls-Royce, QinetiQ, GE Aviation, L-3 Wescam, Meggitt and Lola.

Development of the Mantis started in late 2007, with a mockup being revealed at the 2008 Farnborough International Air Show.

The Mantis is intended to have at least 24-hour operational endurance and is an autonomous vehicle, able to pilot itself and plot its own course, communicating with personnel on the ground regarding its observations.

The large dome on the front, reminiscent of a pilot's canopy, actually contains an upward facing satellite communications system.

[4] Data from FlightGlobal,[5] Rolls-Royce[6]General characteristics Performance Armament Avionics Related development