The unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor, is a long-distance imaging device that has helped the U.S. military conduct reconnaissance missions, and much more.
The unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor, is a long-distance imaging device that has helped the U.S. military conduct reconnaissance missions, and much more.
BINGEN — On Jan. 15, Airbus Helicopters and the Bingen-based company Aerovel announced an agreement regarding the acquisition of Aerovel and the company’s unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor.
Flexrotor is a small tactical unmanned aerial system designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions at sea and over land. Aerovel has been an industry leader in the development of unmanned aerial technology. They created the Group 2 small tactical unmanned aerial system (STUAS). This system has helped the U.S. military and allied intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions across the world.
According to a press release, the acquisition by Airbus Helicopters was aimed to “strengthen its portfolio of tactical unmanned solutions.”
Aerovel CEO Ali Dian said, “Joining forces with Airbus will allow us to scale innovation, accelerate our mission to advance unmanned aviation ... We are proud to become part of an organization with a rich legacy of aerospace excellence and we look forward to leveraging our combined strengths to define the future of autonomous systems.”
The Flexrotor was designed for long-distance surveillance missions that can last as long as 14 hours. The unmanned aircraft is ideal for expeditionary missions requiring minimal footprint. With the support of the U.S. Department of Defense, the aircraft has been deployed for a variety of maritime security drills. The Flexrotor can also provide firefighters with aerial images in the event of forest fire and guide ships and other water vessels through ice in the Arctic ocean.
Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even said that the acquisition will help them meet the demands of their consumers.
“We are looking forward to welcoming Aerovel into the Airbus family. This strategic acquisition aligns with our vision to expand our UAS offering and respond to a growing customer demand worldwide for additional mission capabilities such as manned-unmanned teaming. Aerovel’s expertise in autonomous flight technology will undoubtedly complement our UAS development with the VSR700, as well as the work that we have been doing to develop interoperability,” he said.
The acquisition has been approved by both companies. It remains subject to regulatory approvals, as well as other customary conditions. The transaction is expected to be finalized in 2024.
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