A CUTTING-edge defence technology company that now owns West Wales Airport has revealed how its rapid growth is helping put the region firmly on the map for high-tech innovation and skilled jobs.

The company, Tekever, has expanded significantly across the UK in recent years—but it is its presence in west Wales that is playing a crucial role in its operations.

The firm owns West Wales Airport near Aberporth, where it tests advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), trains operators and demonstrates cutting-edge systems to clients.

Strategic role for west Wales

What began as a small UK operation has grown into a major player in defence and security, specialising in AI-driven autonomous systems used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Company founder Paul Webb said the airport in west Wales is central to that vision.

He explained that the site provides a unique environment where new technologies can be tested safely while supporting collaboration across the wider aerospace sector.

The Herald understands that facilities like West Wales Airport are increasingly seen as vital national assets, particularly as the UK looks to strengthen its domestic defence capability.

From small beginnings to global reach

Tekever, originally founded in Portugal, established its first UK base in Southampton before expanding to Bath and London. It is now preparing to open a major engineering and manufacturing hub in Swindon.

Its growth has been supported in part by early backing from Farnborough Aerospace Consortium, which helped the company develop key software systems in its early days.

FAC chief executive Alan Fisher said the company’s success highlights the importance of supporting innovative businesses from the outset.

He said: “It is remarkable to see how far the company has progressed. It shows what can be achieved when strong ideas and technical talent are backed in the right way.”

Jobs and opportunities

The expansion is expected to bring further investment and high-skilled employment across the UK, with west Wales playing a continuing role in testing and development.

While much of the manufacturing will take place elsewhere, the airport’s role in trials, training and demonstrations ensures the region remains an important part of the company’s long-term plans.

For west Wales, the presence of a world-leading UAV firm offers not just prestige, but the potential to attract further aerospace and defence businesses to the area.

Strength Academy Wales is supporting people across West Wales to stay active, build confidence and live well through inclusive strength training sessions.

A STRENGTH training gym in Haverfordwest is helping more people living with Parkinson’s across West Wales to stay active, connected and live well throughout 2026 and beyond.

Strength Academy Wales (SAW) is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit organisation offering inclusive opportunities for health, fitness and wellbeing. Based in Haverfordwest, SAW supports people of all ages and abilities to enjoy an active lifestyle in a welcoming community environment.

With support from Parkinson’s UK, SAW delivers dedicated strength training sessions for people living with Parkinson’s at its purpose-built gym. These sessions are designed to improve physical strength, boost confidence and provide valuable social connection.

Simon Roach, Lead Volunteer at Strength Academy Wales, founded the organisation after many years coaching weightlifting and strength sports. His personal connection to Parkinson’s has played a key role in shaping the programme.

“Strength Academy Wales is a not-for-profit, volunteer-led community hub in Pembrokeshire. We use strength training to support people’s health, wellbeing and connection with others, and our programmes are open to all ages and abilities.

“I’ve seen how powerful strength training can be — not just for physical progress, but for building confidence and community. My father lived with Parkinson’s, and that experience inspired me to create something meaningful for others locally.

“With encouragement from a retired GP involved in our Age Well programme, and support from Parkinson’s UK, we launched the Parkinson’s Strength Group. We started small, but the sessions quickly grew into a valued part of our timetable.”

Simon added: “I wanted to offer a safe, welcoming space where people could build strength, move with more confidence and connect with others who understand their challenges. Supporting people with Parkinson’s is now a vital part of what we do, and I’m proud of the impact it’s having.”

Alongside its Parkinson’s programme, SAW delivers a wide range of community initiatives supporting older adults, unpaid carers, and people living with conditions such as dementia and arthritis. The organisation continues to grow, recently welcoming new volunteers to support its expanding work.

Extraordinary council meeting will consider objections before final ruling

THE FUTURE of two Pembrokeshire schools will be decided in June, despite councillors already backing plans in principle to close them.

Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed that an extraordinary Full Council meeting will take place on Monday (June 15) to consider objection reports relating to the proposed discontinuation of Ysgol Clydau and Manorbier Church in Wales VC School.

The meeting represents the final stage in the statutory process, where councillors will decide whether to proceed with closure after reviewing formal objections.

The Herald understands that the extraordinary session has been called because the timetable for the proposals does not align with regular council meeting dates.

Last chance to overturn decision

Although councillors have already voted in favour of closure in principle, the June meeting is not a formality.

Campaigners still have a narrow window to influence the outcome, with councillors able to change their position after considering objections and any new evidence.

In rare cases, proposals have been halted or reversed at this final stage — particularly where strong community opposition or concerns over the accuracy of data have been raised.

However, the earlier vote means the schools remain at significant risk, with the council having already indicated its preferred direction.

Political pressure building

The confirmation comes amid growing community concern and a mounting campaign to save Ysgol Clydau.

Campaign group Save Ysgol Clydau – Cadw Clydau yn Gadarn has described the situation as a “critical moment,” urging residents to challenge political parties ahead of the upcoming elections.

Supporters argue that the future of the school is closely tied to the survival of rural communities and the Welsh language.

The group has also thanked councillors — particularly members of the Independent group — for their support.

Decision looming

The June 15 meeting is expected to draw significant public attention, with strong attendance likely as councillors prepare to make a final, legally binding decision.

If approved, the proposal would result in the closure of both schools.