In a strategic move aimed at fortifying its array of tactical unmanned solutions, Airbus has successfully finalized the acquisition of Aerovel, a prominent U.S.-based unmanned aerial systems (UAS) developer, along with its flagship product, the Flexrotor.
The Flexrotor, a compact yet robust unmanned aerial system, has been meticulously crafted for a spectrum of missions encompassing intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) duties both at sea and on land. Its acquisition aligns with Airbus’s overarching vision to cater to the escalating demand for unmanned aerial systems, particularly among armed forces and parapublic agencies worldwide.
Mathilde Royer, Head of Strategy and Sustainability at Airbus Helicopters, commented on the strategic synergy, stating, “We see more and more armed forces and parapublic agencies around the world looking to investigate how unmanned aerial systems can strengthen their intelligence and surveillance capabilities.” She further emphasized the role of Flexrotor in expanding Airbus’s UAS offerings and augmenting manned-unmanned teaming capabilities to meet evolving mission requirements.
The Flexrotor distinguishes itself with its vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, enabling seamless deployment in diverse operational environments. With a maximum launch weight of 25 kg (55 lbs), it boasts endurance exceeding 12-14 hours in a typical configuration, accommodating various payloads tailored to specific mission parameters. Its adaptability extends to autonomous launch and recovery, facilitating expedient operations with minimal logistical footprint.
Supported by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and validated through participation in numerous maritime security exercises, the Flexrotor has proven its mettle as a force multiplier in challenging, GPS-denied scenarios. Beyond military applications, its utility transcends into parapublic domains such as forest fire surveillance, ice navigation, law enforcement, and border patrol, underscoring its versatility and mission readiness.
Aerovel, presently comprising over 30 personnel, is poised for substantial growth under Airbus’s stewardship. Its operations will persist in Bingen, Washington, leveraging an established UAS ecosystem to sustain the production and innovation of Flexrotor.
With the acquisition of Aerovel and the Flexrotor, Airbus reinforces its commitment to pioneering unmanned solutions tailored to contemporary security imperatives, poised to redefine the landscape of aerial reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities on a global scale.