Wednesday 1 April 2026
In partnership with WholeShip, this new hub provides a dedicated space for Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) operators of all experiences – from seasoned pilots to curious members of the public – to try out the latest in virtual reality UAS training solutions.
Supported by Metaverse VR experts, visitors will use the same system trusted by the military to train their UAS operators and take the controls themselves in hyper-realistic mission simulations.
XR Team Leader at Metaverse VR, Liam Peachey, said “visitors will immerse themselves in the demonstration. They’ll put on a headset, pick up the controls, and experience what it feels like to fly. The software includes accurately recreated geographical locations, like Dubai old town, with real-to-life graphics.”
As an experienced 3D Artist with a degree in Computer Games Technology from the University of Portsmouth, Peachey oversees the design and build of the virtual reality technology, including ensuring the virtual drone reacts on screen just as it would in real life. He explained, “VirtualSky is designed to feel realistic but safe, so people can learn, practice, and build confidence without worrying about crashing a real drone”.
VirtualSky is one of Metaverse VR’s flagship products. It’s a cutting-edge virtual reality training platform which is both hyper-realistic and fully customisable.
Military personnel and drone operators use the software to learn handling skills and to practise flying in challenging conditions. The VirtualSky technology allows for immersive, strategic mission preparation, while being safe and cost-effective.
The launch of the dedicated demonstration space at the National Drone Hub makes the virtual reality technology accessible to everyone with an interest in drones. As well as qualified drone operators and drone enthusiasts across the UK, members of the public can book a demonstration with a Metaverse VR expert.
Peachey explains the ethos behind the Metaverse VR’s permanent demonstration space:
It’s a place where you can see the latest drone technology up close and try some of it for yourself. It’s a good chance for anyone interested in drones to learn, explore, and see where the industry is heading.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for experienced drone operators to develop their expertise. Having a permanent location for operators to visit means they have “easy access to a training tool where they can practise skills and test situations before flying in the real world.”
As well as showcasing Metaverse VR’s technology to a wider audience, the collaboration with WholeShip at The National Drone Hub marks a “significant milestone” for the virtual reality company.
Metaverse VR has been a regular highlight at drone events and conferences in recent years where they have presented their technology to attendees. This collaboration is the first time Metaverse VR has a permanent site for drone enthusiasts and experts to visit.
“Being at the National Drone Hub enables us to work closely with other businesses and demonstrate how virtual reality simulation can enhance drone training”, said Peachey.
“We’re committed to ensure VirtualSky is the most accurate, most effective drone training technology available. Through this collaboration, we can show VirtualSky to drone operators and use their feedback to help us keep improving it”.
Metaverse VR was launched in 2009 by CEO and Founder Toby Everitt, after a career of 24 years in both the Army and the Royal Navy as a pilot. The company uses virtual reality technology to create hyper-realistic, immersive training solutions for trainees who work in extreme environments.
WholeShip’s National Drone Hub is based in Predannack Airfield, Helston, Cornwall. It is run in partnership with the Royal Navy and was set up in December 2022. It combines facilities, expertise, and airspace for the development and testing of Beyond Visual Line Of Site (BVLOS) and Ship-Air Integration for drones.
To book a demonstration of VirtualSky at the Metaverse VR demonstration space and feel what it’s like to fly a drone for yourself, book via info@metaverse-vr.co.uk
Find out the gaps in the training programmes in less than 60 seconds. Answer 8 quick questions and get a personalised report in your inbox.
Get our newsletter. Read the most up-to-date training news, technology innovations, and promotions in your inbox.
