By becoming a shareholder in Hybrid Drones Ltd, MBDA aims to leverage the innovative capabilities of both companies to integrate advanced MBDA effectors. The partnership reflects MBDA’s commitment to supporting cutting-edge defence technologies developed by UK enterprises.
Suzanne Jude, Director of UK Sales and Business Development at MBDA, emphasised the strategic importance of the investment, stating: “Innovation and delivering sovereign capabilities are part of the DNA of MBDA. Having worked in partnership with Hybrid Drones Ltd, our investment is a natural next step in our continued collaboration. By supporting agile, pioneering SMEs such as Hybrid Drones, we’re not just investing in a product, but in the future of defence ecosystems, strengthening competitive advantage in an increasingly complex global defence landscape.”
The investment supports the ongoing development of the Hydra 400, a versatile heavy lift drone that can carry a range of payloads, including casualty evacuation pods, cargo, or weapon systems. The Hydra 400 employs a hybrid propulsion system, combining electric rotors and single spool jet turbines for lift and propulsion, offering both flexibility and efficiency.
The UAV’s modular design allows it to be configured as fully electric or as a hybrid using two, four, or six jets. Its compact size and portability mean it can be transported on a flatbed truck and quickly assembled for deployment. The Hydra 400’s adaptability and efficiency make it a promising asset for modern military applications.
The British Army’s Warfighting Experiment has played a pivotal role in facilitating the collaboration between MBDA and Hybrid Drones Ltd. As part of this programme, which tests emerging military technologies, the two companies have worked together to explore innovative defence solutions.
Dr Stephen Prior, CEO of Hybrid Drones Ltd, expressed his enthusiasm for the continued partnership, saying: “While our original collaboration with MBDA was a great validation of our agile and innovative technological approach, this further investment in our business means more than just financial backing. It allows us to meaningfully contribute to national defence capabilities while keeping our high-skilled workforce local.”
He added: “We look forward to continuing our partnership as we aim to make Hydra the heavy lift hybrid UAV of choice in defence, as well as other sectors.”
Source: MBDA.
