A cross-channel defence project to build an advanced drone is unlikely to be hit by Britain quitting the European Union, according to BAE Systems.

BAE is part of consortium of British and French companies working on the unmanned Future Combat Air System (FCAS) but according to the defence giant’s chairman, the UK’s vote to leave the EU will not affect the project.

Speaking at BAE's annual general meeting, Sir Roger Carr said Brexit will not move the dial for the company.