U.S  

Airbus has acquired U.S.-based Aerovel and its Flexrotor unmanned aerial system, bolstering its tactical unmanned solutions for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions on land and at sea.

Airbus has recently completed the acquisition of Aerovel, a U.S.-based company renowned for its unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor. This strategic move bolsters Airbus's lineup of tactical unmanned solutions. The Flexrotor is a compact yet powerful unmanned aerial system designed primarily for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, both on land and at sea.

The Flexrotor is a modern Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft with a maximum launch weight of 25 kg (55 lbs). It's engineered to conduct ISTAR missions for extended periods, typically ranging from 12 to 14 hours in a standard operational setup. What sets it apart is its versatility in integrating various payloads, including electro-optical systems and advanced sensors, tailored to meet specific mission requirements.

One of its key strengths lies in its ability to autonomously launch and recover from either land or sea, needing just a 3.7 by 3.7 meters (12 by 12 feet) area. This makes it ideal for expeditionary missions where space is limited. The Flexrotor has proven its worth through support from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and deployment in diverse maritime security exercises. Its reliability as a force multiplier in challenging environments, including those where GPS signals are disrupted, has been acknowledged.

Beyond military applications, the Flexrotor finds utility in parapublic missions such as forest fire surveillance, aiding firefighters with crucial images even in low-light conditions. It can also assist in ice navigation, guiding naval vessels through Arctic waters, and is well-suited for law enforcement and border patrol tasks.

Aerovel, currently employing over 30 individuals, is poised for significant growth. The company will continue to design and manufacture the Flexrotor in Bingen, Washington, leveraging an established and mature UAS ecosystem.

In conclusion, Airbus's acquisition of Aerovel and its Flexrotor UAS marks a strategic step towards expanding its unmanned aerial capabilities. With its endurance, adaptability, and proven track record in diverse missions, the Flexrotor reinforces Airbus's commitment to offering enhanced solutions for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance needs across various sectors, ultimately contributing to the safety and security of communities and critical infrastructure worldwide.