The project involves the study and development of a hybrid uncrewed aircraft capable of carrying out a variety of operational missions depending on its configuration and payloads. It aims to strengthen European capabilities in the field of uncrewed aerial systems.
“We would like to thank the EDA for the trust it has placed in us. This selection is a major recognition of our expertise in tactical drone systems and reflects our commitment to supporting the development of innovative European defence capabilities,” said Christophe Canguilhem, Director of the Capa-X programme at Airbus Helicopters.
“The characteristics of the Capa-X system make it particularly well suited to the M2UAS project, while offering a scalable operational solution that can be adapted to the needs of the armed forces,” he added. The initiative builds on the existing Capa-X uncrewed aerial system to further strengthen and expand its operational capabilities.
The first phase of the project will last 12 months and will focus on analysing current and future military operational needs. It will also assess technological challenges and identify potential development pathways to guide and optimise technological choices.
The work is expected to enhance the Capa-X platform’s versatility, efficiency and multi-mission potential. In the longer term, the project will support the definition of new drone architectures capable of carrying out a wide range of missions.
These missions may include surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic warfare, aerial effects deployment and automated in-flight refuelling. The project is therefore intended to contribute to strengthening European operational capabilities in the field of unmanned aerial systems.
The Capa-X is a 120 kg multi-mission drone with a data link range of 100 km and an endurance of up to 10 hours. It can carry payloads of up to 20 kg and features a modular design that allows it to be adapted to different missions, configurations and regulatory requirements for public decision-makers, armed forces and civil or parapublic operators.
