Airbus has completed the acquisition of Aerovel and its UAS called Flexrotor, specifically designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, both at sea and over land.
Airbus has completed the acquisition of U.S.-based Aerovel and its unmanned aerial system (UAS) called Flexrotor, a move aimed at bolstering its portfolio of tactical unmanned solutions. Flexrotor is specifically designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, both at sea and over land. Aerovel, the company behind Flexrotor, currently employs over 30 individuals and is on a significant growth trajectory. The acquisition will allow Aerovel to continue designing and manufacturing Flexrotor in Bingen, Washington, within an established UAS ecosystem. This strategic move underscores Airbus’ commitment to advancing unmanned technologies and providing innovative solutions for defense and public safety applications.
“We see more and more armed forces and parapublic agencies around the world looking to investigate how unmanned aerial systems can strengthen their intelligence and surveillance capabilities. The Flexrotor, as a vertical takeoff and landing UAS, fits into our strategy to expand our UAS offerings. Together with the VSR700, we will continue to develop manned-unmanned teaming to offer our customers the enhanced and expanded mission capabilities that they require to monitor and safeguard their communities and critical infrastructure, while preserving essential assets such as helicopters,” said Mathilde Royer, Head of Strategy and Sustainability, Airbus Helicopters.
Flexrotor is a modern Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft with a maximum launch weight of 25 kg (55 lbs), designed to conduct ISTAR missions for extended durations, typically 12-14 hours, in a typical operational configuration. It can integrate various payloads, including electro-optical systems and advanced sensors, tailored to customers’ mission requirements. Its autonomous launch and recovery capabilities from land or sea, requiring minimal space (3.7 by 3.7 m or 12 by 12 ft.), make it suitable for expeditionary missions with a minimal footprint.
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The Flexrotor has proven its effectiveness as a force multiplier in high-threat, GPS-denied environments through support from the US Department of Defense (DoD) and deployment in maritime security exercises. It also serves parapublic missions such as forest fire surveillance, providing critical imagery to firefighters day or night. Additionally, it addresses diverse mission needs like ice navigation in the Arctic Ocean, law enforcement, and border patrol.
Question- What is the main purpose of the Flexrotor unmanned aerial system?
answers- Intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions.
Question- Where is Aerovel, the company behind Flexrotor, located?
answers- Bingen, Washington.
Question- How long can the Flexrotor operate in a typical mission configuration?
answers- 12-14 hours.
