Flexrotor UAS Acquisition: A Game Changer for Drone Technology
Australian aerospace startup Drone Forge has taken a significant step in drone technology by signing an agreement to acquire mission-ready Flexrotor uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) from Airbus Helicopters. This deal includes six Flexrotor UAS machines, comprising a total of 17 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drones. The aircraft will be tailored for diverse operations across both land and sea, enhancing capabilities for missions such as littoral surveillance and high-altitude inland reconnaissance in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Flexrotor drone, recognized as a Group 2 tactical VTOL aircraft, boasts an operational endurance of 12 to 14 hours. It is designed to undertake a variety of complex missions, including intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance (ISTAR), as well as maritime warfare and search and rescue operations.
Strategic Partnership with Airbus
Olivier Michalon, Executive VP of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, emphasized the importance of this key agreement, stating, “The landmark order opens a new chapter in our partnership with Drone Forge, reinforcing our shared commitment to delivering cutting-edge crewed-uncrewed teaming capabilities to Asia-Pacific operators.” This collaborative effort will undoubtedly strengthen operational capabilities in the region, showcasing advanced drone technologies.
Flexrotor represents a significant advancement in Airbus’ UAS offerings, especially after the company’s acquisition of Aerovel, the original manufacturer, in January 2024. This latest VTOL drone is engineered for seamless autonomous launch and recovery within compact zones measuring just 3.7 by 3.7 meters (12 by 12 feet), allowing for effective deployment from naval vessels or challenging land terrains.
Design and Specifications of Flexrotor
The Flexrotor drone measures 2 meters (7 feet) in length and features a wingspan of 3 meters (9.8 feet). With a maximum launch weight of 25 kilograms (55 pounds), it can accommodate a variety of payloads up to 8 kilograms (18 pounds), including advanced electro-optical systems and sophisticated sensors. Additionally, the drone can reach speeds of up to 140 kilometers (87 miles) per hour, making it a powerful asset for various operational needs.
To optimize its performance, the Flexrotor will be outfitted with a heavy fuel engine tailored for naval use, enhancing safety, fuel access, and overall interoperability. Moreover, Starlink connectivity will facilitate beyond-line-of-sight operations, enabling real-time situational awareness, while PT-6 imaging systems will provide stabilized, high-resolution intelligence for comprehensive surveillance and reconnaissance.
Market Expansion and Future Prospects
Drone Forge CEO Thomas Symes expressed confidence in the Flexrotor’s potential, stating, “We are fully convinced that the Flexrotor, built on a strong engineering heritage, will allow us to tap into new markets with a proven solution where real-time intelligence, mission flexibility, and reliability matter.” His vision highlights the strategic importance of the Flexrotor in extending operational capabilities to meet diverse market demands.
Symes further noted the company’s eagerness to integrate and commercialize the Flexrotor systems across the region. This initiative not only aims to enhance military applications but also paves the way for innovative uses in commercial sectors, promising significant advancements in drone technology and operations throughout the Asia-Pacific territory.
