Madrid. Alpha Unmanned Systems, a Spanish company and leader in the development of unmanned helicopters (UAVs), has signed a collaboration agreement with Airbus Helicopters España. This strategic alliance follows the successful joint participation of both companies in Spanish military exercises and marks a significant step toward integrating Crewed-Uncrewed Teaming capabilities, or collaboration between manned and unmanned helicopters.
Airbus Helicopters España, a global leader in the helicopter sector and a key player in advanced aerial solutions in Spain, works closely with the Armed Forces and national security agencies, including the Spanish Army, reinforcing the impact of this collaboration.
The agreement will focus on mission coordination and the joint development of advanced concepts to enable interoperability between manned helicopters and Alpha Unmanned Systems’ rotary drones, working as a team to enhance capabilities during surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
According to Eric Freeman, CEO of Alpha Unmanned Systems, “We have signed a formal agreement to advance collaborative capabilities between manned and unmanned aircraft (MUM-T), a key step toward integrating tactical UAVs into next-generation helicopter operations.”
Luis Martín Díaz, Head of Customers and Programs at Airbus Helicopters España, added, “We are convinced that the synergy between helicopters and drones is essential for improving security and expanding functionalities.”
The Alpha A900: Spanish Technology for Defence and Security
At the heart of this collaboration is the Alpha A900, Alpha Unmanned Systems’ most advanced unmanned helicopter. The A900 stands out for its robustness, versatility, and ability to operate in demanding maritime and land-based environments. With a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) under 25 kg, the A900 is designed according to STANAG 4738 standards, meeting the security and operational requirements of armed forces and security agencies.
The collaboration between Alpha Unmanned Systems and Airbus Helicopters España has already proven its operational potential during exercises organised by the Spanish Army, such as those held at the recent 2E+I Forum in Toledo. In these demonstrations, Alpha A900 UAVs operated in coordination with Airbus H135 helicopters from the Spanish Army Air Forces (FAMET), alongside ground vehicles, and were directly controlled from the cockpit of the manned helicopter. This integration demonstrated the interoperability and advantages of joint operations, significantly enhancing mission effectiveness, safety, and surveillance capabilities.
