Aerovel Integrates New Heavy Fuel Engine in Flexrotor Drone

Aerovel has upgraded its Flexrotor Unmanned Aircraft by incorporating a Heavy Fuel Engine (HFE) with proprietary fuel mixture control.

This modification improves its Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) performance, operational range, and efficiency for maritime missions. The first Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) units will be deployed with the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet and Task Force 59 for operational demonstrations.

The addition of the HFE allows the Flexrotor to conduct Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. Weighing 25 kg (55 lbs), it can fly for up to 12-14 hours with various payload options, including electro-optical systems. Its ability to launch and recover from a compact area of 3.7 by 3.7 meters (12 by 12 ft) makes it suitable for expeditionary missions.

The system is also used in parapublic roles such as forest fire surveillance, ice navigation for naval vessels, and supporting law enforcement efforts.