Unmanned aerial system portfolio of Airbus Helicopters set to grow via acquisition of Aerovel
Airbus Helicopters has made a strategic move in mid-2025 by acquiring U.S.-based Aerovel. This acquisition aims to strengthen Airbus Helicopters' portfolio of tactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS), particularly enhancing development in autonomous flight technologies.
The acquisition of Aerovel, a company renowned for its Flexrotor UAS, will complement Airbus Helicopters’ vision to expand unmanned mission capabilities, especially in manned-unmanned teaming scenarios. The Flexrotor UAS, designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions at sea and on land, is a valuable addition to Airbus Helicopters' offerings.
This acquisition is part of Airbus Helicopters' broader strategy to accelerate innovation and expand its tactical UAS offerings globally. The integration of Aerovel brings decades of specialized expertise in autonomous aviation, led by Aerovel’s founder Tad McGeer, that is expected to synergize with Airbus's ongoing development efforts on the VSR700 — a rotary-wing unmanned system designed to operate from naval vessels and perform diverse maritime missions.
The strategic impact of this acquisition includes enhanced autonomy and ISTAR capability, acceleration of VSR700 development, growth in manned-unmanned teaming, wider market reach and innovation scaling, and improved interoperability and operational capabilities across Airbus’s unmanned and manned platforms.
The Flexrotor, a small tactical unmanned aerial system, has a maximum launch weight of 25 kg and can operate for more than 12-14 hours. Its minimal footprint, requiring only a 12 by 12 ft. area for launch and recovery, makes it ideal for expeditionary missions. The Flexrotor has been used in maritime security exercises and proven to be a force multiplier. It can also be used for parapublic missions such as forest fire surveillance and ice navigation.
The acquisition does not affect Flexrotor’s ability to integrate various payloads, including electro-optical systems and advanced sensors. The transaction closing is expected in 2024. The acquisition aligns with Airbus Helicopters' vision to expand its UAS offering, focusing on MUM-T (Manned-Unmanned Teaming) applications.
It's worth noting that Aerovel, based in Bingen, Washington, will remain a US-owned company. The acquisition has been approved by the relevant bodies of both companies, and it is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions. Aerovel will continue collaboration with the US DoD under Airbus' Special Security Agreement (SSA).
This acquisition marks a significant step forward for Airbus Helicopters in the field of autonomous aviation technologies, positioning the company for continued leadership and innovation in the years to come.
This acquisition of Aerovel, a company specialized in autonomous aviation technologies, by Airbus Helicopters will not only bolster their portfolio but also significantly contribute to the development of their tactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS), particularly the VSR700. The Flexrotor UAS, designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, will complement Airbus Helicopters' existing offerings in the finance, aerospace, and technology sectors.
