Drone Forge, an innovative Australian aerospace company, has entered into an agreement with Airbus Helicopters to acquire advanced Flexrotor uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) tailored for diverse missions.
The deal includes six Flexrotor systems, encompassing a total of 17 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drones. These drones are designed to operate across the Asia-Pacific region, supporting tasks ranging from coastal monitoring to high-altitude operations in remote inland areas.
Classified as a Group 2 tactical VTOL drone, the Flexrotor boasts an impressive flight endurance of 12 to 14 hours. It is equipped to handle critical missions such as intelligence gathering, surveillance, target tracking, reconnaissance (ISTAR), maritime operations, and search-and-rescue efforts.
Olivier Michalon, Airbus Helicopters’ Executive Vice President of Global Business, stated, “This significant contract marks a new milestone in our collaboration with Drone Forge, reinforcing our joint mission to deliver cutting-edge solutions for integrated crewed-uncrewed operations to clients in the Asia-Pacific.”
Built for Versatile Deployments
The Flexrotor joined Airbus’ UAS lineup following the company’s acquisition of Aerovel, its original developer, in early 2024.
This VTOL drone is engineered for autonomous takeoff and landing in compact 3.7 x 3.7-meter (12 x 12-foot) spaces, making it ideal for deployment from naval vessels or challenging terrains with minimal setup.
With a length of 2 meters (7 feet) and a wingspan of 3 meters (9.8 feet), the Flexrotor has a maximum takeoff weight of 25 kilograms (55 pounds). It can carry payloads of up to 8 kilograms (18 pounds), including advanced electro-optical systems and sensors.
Capable of reaching speeds up to 140 kilometers per hour (87 miles per hour), the drone is fitted with a heavy-fuel engine optimized for maritime environments, enhancing safety, fuel efficiency, and interoperability.
Equipped with Starlink connectivity, the Flexrotor enables operations beyond visual line of sight, providing real-time data for enhanced situational awareness. Its PT-6 imaging systems deliver high-resolution, stabilized imagery for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Thomas Symes, CEO of Drone Forge, commented, “The Flexrotor’s robust design and proven performance open doors to new opportunities in markets where flexibility, reliability, and real-time insights are critical. We’re excited to bring these systems to the region and drive their integration and commercialization.”
