At the ILA Berlin Air Show 2026, Airbus Defence and Space is showcasing its full family of drones designed for both civilian and military missions. The growing demand for unmanned aerial systems, driven largely by the war in Ukraine, has pushed the European aerospace giant to accelerate development and production of new platforms.
The company’s portfolio includes the SIRTAP, a medium-altitude long-endurance drone capable of flying for approximately 20 hours at 6,000 metres while gathering intelligence. Light tactical drones with varied propulsion systems – the U010 Aliaca, U030 Flexrotor, and U050 Capa-X – can be used for surveillance and civilian tasks.
Airbus Defence and Space is also introducing two advanced combat drones: the U760 Ravestorm, developed in partnership with the American company Krotos Defence & Security, and the U680 Bird of Pray, an interceptor drone that completed its first demonstration flights in March 2026.
From surveillance to strike: the new generation of battlefield drones
The U760 Ravestorm is designed as a combat UAV with advanced stealth and precision strike capabilities. Its entry into service with the German Air Force is planned for 2029. The system is being built to operate in contested airspace and can carry a range of munitions.
Meanwhile, the U680 Bird of Pray is intended for rapid interception and suppression of enemy air defences. Its early flight tests have already been completed, and the platform is expected to be operational before the Ravestorm.
Light tactical drones for multi-role operations
The smaller UAVs – Aliaca, Flexrotor and Capa-X – offer flexible deployment options. They can be launched from ships, vehicles or by hand, and are suited for reconnaissance, border patrol, and disaster response. Their modular design allows for quick reconfiguration depending on mission requirements.
– The Ravestorm represents a leap forward in unmanned combat aviation. We are combining European design with American technology to deliver a system that meets the highest standards of performance and survivability – said a spokesperson for Airbus Defence and Space.
The Berlin air show is one of the most important aerospace events globally, and Airbus is using the platform to underline its commitment to expanding the drone segment. The company expects the global market for military UAVs to grow sharply in the coming years, particularly in Europe, as nations seek to modernise their armed forces.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Airbus Defence & Security
