VALERO is a multi-purpose air vehicle designed to enhance collaborative combat capabilities while minimising risk and maximising mission success. The system’s flexibility allows it to accommodate various payloads, which can be adapted according to specific operational requirements.
The weapon system, the result of a project initiated in 2023, is entirely developed within Spain, reflecting a commitment to promoting national industrial and technological capabilities. “The aim of this innovative, ambitious, and structural project is to drive the national industrial fabric throughout the country,” said Manuel Rodríguez Cerezo, director of Weapons & Ammunitions at Indra.
Indra’s new system is designed to address the evolving challenges of multi-domain scenarios. VALERO can be launched from both air and surface platforms, offering options for expendable or recoverable missions. Its ability to deceive, saturate, and perform collaborative tasks in combat ensures it is highly versatile.
The VALERO system includes a modular Multi-Purpose Air Vehicle (MAV), a surface launcher, a planning and control ground segment, and support equipment. This modularity allows for customised configurations, making the system adaptable to varying mission profiles and operational environments.
According to Indra, VALERO’s capabilities include low-cost mass deployment, making it a vital asset in modern combat scenarios. Its potential to increase combat power while protecting valuable assets positions it as a key innovation for both Spain and Europe’s defence strategies.
Rodríguez Cerezo emphasised the broader industrial impact of the project, highlighting collaboration with companies, universities, and specialised centres. “With VALERO, we’ll contribute to reinforcing our industry, creating quality jobs, and consolidating industrial corridors that can address the new challenges facing the sector,” he stated.
The VALERO weapon system positions Spain’s defence industry on the international stage, offering a modern, flexible, and strategic solution for the emerging defence challenges. As interest grows in such capabilities worldwide, VALERO is set to become a flagship product for Indra and a significant asset for Spain’s defence capabilities.
Source: Indra (press release).
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