Airbus Helicopters has announced the acquisition of Aerovel, a key player in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and its advanced Flexrotor UAS. This strategic move aims to bolster Airbus' portfolio in tactical unmanned solutions, responding to increasing global demand for enhanced mission capabilities, including manned-unmanned teaming.
Flexrotor: A Game-Changer in ISTAR Missions
The Flexrotor, central to this acquisition, is a compact tactical unmanned aerial system, designed specifically for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. Its versatility allows operations both at sea and over land. With a maximum launch weight of 25 kg and the ability to operate for 12-14 hours, Flexrotor integrates various payloads like electro-optical systems and advanced sensors, adapting to unique mission requirements.
Autonomous and Expeditionary
One of Flexrotor's standout features is its Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) capability, enabling autonomous launch and recovery from constrained spaces as small as 12 by 12 feet. This makes it exceptionally suitable for expeditionary missions where operational footprint is a concern. The system has already been tested and deployed in various maritime security exercises under the US Department of Defense (DoD), proving its efficacy in challenging, high-threat, and GPS-denied environments.
Applications Beyond Military Use
Beyond military applications, Flexrotor shows promise in parapublic missions like forest fire surveillance, aiding firefighters with crucial imagery, and ice navigation, assisting naval vessels in the Arctic ocean. Its flexibility in operation underlines its potential as a force multiplier across various scenarios.
A Synergistic Acquisition
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, emphasized that the acquisition aligns with Airbus’ vision to expand its UAS offerings and address the increasing customer demand for diverse mission capabilities. Aerovel’s expertise in autonomous flight technology complements Airbus’ ongoing UAS developments, including the VSR700 and interoperability efforts.
Ali Dian, CEO of Aerovel, expressed enthusiasm about joining Airbus, noting that the partnership would escalate innovation and enhance their commitment to supporting the US military and its allies. He also highlighted the significance of this union as a tribute to Aerovel's Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Tad McGeer, who has been dedicated to pioneering unmanned products for three decades.
Impact on US DoD and Regulatory Approvals
Aerovel, headquartered in Bingen, Washington, will continue as a US-owned entity and maintain collaboration with the US DoD under Airbus’ Special Security Agreement (SSA). This partnership is expected to enhance US military capabilities with cutting-edge unmanned systems. The completion of this acquisition, subject to regulatory approvals and standard conditions, is anticipated in 2024.
The acquisition of Aerovel by Airbus not only strengthens Airbus' position in the UAS market but also promises innovative developments in autonomous technology for global security and public safety.
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