Airbus-Naval Group UAS Tested at Sea with French Navy

The trial of the VSR-700 drone aboard the French Navy frigate 'Provence' confirmed its ability to operate automatically from a combat ship in rough seas, according to military officials.

Kimberly Johnson

Thursday, November 02, 2023 at 02:51 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

The French Navy successfully conducted maritime trials of the VSR-700 uncrewed aerial system (UAS) from its multimission frigate, Provence, in the Mediterranean.
The tests confirmed the VSR-700's ability to operate automatically from a warship, including taking off and landing in complex scenarios and representative operational conditions.
Developed by Airbus Helicopters and Naval Group as a demonstrator for the naval aerial drone system (SDAM), this marks a significant advancement for the French Navy's future capabilities.
Initial operational capability for the VSR-700 UAS is expected by 2026, building a robust and sovereign solution.

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The French Navy successfully tested a maritime drone from a multimission frigate, confirming its ability to operate automatically from a warship in rough seas, according to the country’s military officials.

The VSR-700 uncrewed aerial system (UAS) was developed as a demonstrator for the naval aerial drone system (SDAM) by Airbus Helicopters and Paris-based navy development firm Naval Group. The maritime trial was executed October 2-9 while on board the multimission frigate (FREMM) Provence as it operated in the Mediterranean, the General Directorate of Armaments (DGA) said.