Airbus Helicopters to Acquire VTOL UAV Manufacturer, Aerovel

Airbus Helicopters and Aerovel have inked an agreement for Airbus to acquire Aerovel and its unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor.

The move is part of Airbus' strategic plan to bolster its portfolio of tactical unmanned solutions. Flexrotor, a compact tactical unmanned aerial system designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, particularly at sea and over land, is a key asset in this acquisition.

The acquisition aims to enhance Airbus' UAS development, particularly in the context of manned-unmanned teaming, leveraging Aerovel's autonomous flight technology expertise.

The Flexrotor, a modern Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft, boasts a maximum launch weight of 25 kg and is tailored for ISTAR missions lasting 12-14 hours. Its versatility allows integration of various payloads, making it suitable for unique mission requirements. The Flexrotor's autonomous launch and recovery capabilities from land or sea, requiring only a 12 by 12 ft. area, make it ideal for expeditionary missions with minimal footprint.

Flexrotor is supported by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and deployed in maritime security exercises. Its applications extend to parapublic missions like forest fire surveillance and ice navigation in the Arctic Ocean.

Aerovel, headquartered in Bingen, Washington, will remain a U.S.-owned company, continuing its collaboration with the U.S. DoD under Airbus' Special Security Agreement (SSA).

The acquisition, approved by both companies' relevant bodies, is pending regulatory approvals and customary conditions, with the transaction expected to conclude in 2024.