Airbus Helicopters Looks to Expand UAS Portfolio with Acquisition

The transaction comes just a few months after Airbus U.S. Space & Defense added a dedicated military drone business.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 02:53 PM ET

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Aerovel’s Flexrotor tactical UAS is expected to join Airbus Helicopters’ portfolio by year’s end. [Courtesy: Airbus Helicopters]

Key Takeaways:

Airbus is expanding its uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) portfolio through its subsidiary Airbus Helicopters, with the strategic intent to acquire Aerovel, the manufacturer of the Flexrotor tactical drone.
The Flexrotor is a high-endurance, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, intended for military and potential commercial applications.
This acquisition aims to bolster Airbus's UAS capabilities, respond to growing customer demand for mission versatility, and enhance its existing efforts in autonomous flight technology and manned-unmanned teaming, particularly within projects like the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).

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Airbus, a top manufacturer of commercial jets, is looking to expand its uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) portfolio.

The French OEM on Monday announced its intent to acquire Aerovel, manufacturer of the Flexrotor tactical drone, through its subsidiary Airbus Helicopters. The drone—designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR)—is expected to join Airbus’ UAS roster by the end of the year, the manufacturer said, pending regulatory approval.