Unmanned Aerial Systems
Unmanned Aerial Systems
UAS solutions for military, government and commercial applications
Paving the way for an unmanned future
Unmanned and autonomous flight - certifiable, safe and secure - starts with Airbus. We are well positioned as a UAS technology leader with an exceptional heritage in both manned and unmanned flight.
Airbus combines a deep understanding of its customers with over 40 years of experience in UAS, from development and production to support services and operations. Driven by the needs of the global market, we translate years of technological advancement into practical solutions to the challenges faced by military, governmental and commercial customers.
Airbus Unmanned Aerial Systems aims to pioneer sustainable aerospace for a safer and more united world.
Discover Airbus’ UAS solutions and services
For almost a decade, Airbus has been supporting the armed forces with systems deployed in combat zones such as Afghanistan and Mali. We bring our military experience to the civil and institutional markets, adapting to all customer requirements.
Our solutions range from the large, long endurance, multi-mission Eurodrone to agile, lightweight tactical UAS.
A rich heritage of UAS experience
Innovations, concepts and demonstrators
Airbus has decades of experience in unmanned systems through concept studies and technology demonstrators such as Talarion, EuroHawk, Quadcruiser, ATLANTE and the stealth demonstrators LOUT and SAGITTA.
In the beginning…
Airbus has been involved in UAS since 1966 with the Dornier Kiebitz. The KZO, developed by STN ATLAS Elektronik and Rheinmetall Defence Electronics, now Airbus Defence and Space Airborne Solutions, first flew in 1998 and has been in service with the German Army since 2004.
Europe’s first UCAV demonstrator
The Barracuda was Europe's first Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator and is proof that even 20 years ago Airbus had a concrete vision for the future of air power. The skills and experience gained are now being applied to the Remote Carriers for Manned-Unmanned Teaming and the Eurodrone.
Discover more about Defence at Airbus
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Future Combat Air System (FCAS)
Future Combat Air System: Ensuring future national and European operational, technological and industrial sovereignty.
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Connectivity
Airbus specialises in secure, multi-orbit, multi-domain connectivity across the world's land, sea, air and space domains.
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Intelligence and data
Airbus C5ISR solutions deliver a full picture with advanced command, control, communications, cyber, and iIntelligence…
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Military Space
Airbus’ space-based assets ensure constant communication, connectivity and surveillance for military operations on land, at sea,…
The latest in UAS news
In spotlight
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Stories Helicopters
Today’s discussions: tomorrow’s revolutions
With the start of the International Military Helicopter conference, William Samson, VP, Head of Market Operations, reflects on the future of military helicopters, a theme he also discussed at Airbus… -
Press releases Helicopters
Airbus and European partners demonstrate collaboration between helicopters and…
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Stories Helicopters
Intelligent collaboration: the future of manned-unmanned teaming
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Stories Helicopters
Flexrotor: the 25kg force multiplier
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Press releases Defence
Unmanned escort for manned fighter jets: Airbus presents new Wingman concept at ILA…
Earth observation
Earth observation
Satellites and Services
The earth viewed from above
Over the past 50 years, remote sensing via satellites has yielded both spectacular views of our planet and unprecedented scientific insights.
Today, Earth observation satellites are at the forefront of monitoring climate change, deforestation, rising sea levels, and greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. They’re also vital for homeland security, coastal surveillance and disaster management.
At Airbus, we not only build many of these satellites but also transform geospatial data into actionable insights to help our partners make the best decisions.
Airbus’ comprehensive portfolio means we are able to provide the right satellite and system for our customers – whether they need a weather-independent data source, a small constellation for high-frequency revisits, very high-resolution imagery or even all of these (and more).
Our global expertise
Almost 40 years of successful Earth observation
Since 1986, Airbus Defence and Space has successfully built and delivered 70+ Earth observation satellite systems, accumulating close to 600 years of in-orbit experience.
Around 30 new satellites as well as numerous payloads are currently in development in our facilities around the globe for customers.
The latest earth observation news
In the spotlight
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Stories Innovation
Improving the world we live in with AI-powered products
Some Airbus space products help address land use issues by using artificial intelligence to improve satellite imagery analysis. -
Press releases Space
Ariane-6 launches CSO-3: double success for France and Europe
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Press releases Space
Airbus-built Biomass forest measuring satellite shipped to Kourou
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Stories Space
Inside Atlid, mastering atmospheric LiDAR technology for space
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Stories Space
Preserving Madagascar’s biodiversity using satellite imagery
Discover more about Space at Airbus
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Telecommunications and Navigation satellites
Airbus is a global leader in communications and navigation satellites, delivering high-performance products and solutions to…
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Space exploration
Airbus is at the heart of space exploration, designing and delivering innovative spacecraft, robots, scientific experiments…
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Space ground systems
We provide advanced ground infrastructure solutions for any mission, including the DRS, end user terminals, network management &…
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Space equipment
Airbus offers innovative and cutting-edge standard and custom spacecraft solutions, hardware, systems and services for all types…
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Space customer support
With a tailored satellite or connectivity system, each customer has access to a wide range of services, from in-orbit delivery to…
Energy transition
Energy transition
Introducing lower-emission propulsion technology to aerospace
Pursuing lower-emission aviation
ALTERNATIVE ENERGIES
Airbus has developed a structured and modular energy transformation roadmap applicable to all of its aerospace solutions. The roadmap includes a range of technologies such as sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), hydrogen – either directly burnt or transformed into electricity through fuel cells – and new hybrid-electric propulsion systems. We are exploring these technical solutions in parallel and continuously refining their potential to meet our decarbonisation ambition.
Energy transition at Airbus
The latest in energy transition
In the spotlight
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Stories Innovation
Improving the world we live in with AI-powered products
Some Airbus space products help address land use issues by using artificial intelligence to improve satellite imagery analysis. -
Press releases Innovation
Airbus launches study on non-CO2 aircraft emissions with Canadian aerospace partners
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Press releases Innovation
Airbus showcases hydrogen aircraft technologies during its 2025 Airbus Summit
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Press releases Innovation
Airbus accelerates Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption with book and claim
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Press releases Innovation
PACIFIC, a new European project led by Airbus, will advance research on contrail…
More in innovation at Airbus
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Aircraft operations
Welcome to the future of aircraft operations – where innovation meets efficiency and sustainability.
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Digital transformation
Airbus’ digital transformation is about integrating advanced technologies and concepts throughout the product lifecycle, from…
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Innovation ecosystem
Airbus cultivates an innovation ecosystem where internal experts and external stakeholders come together to translate ideas into…
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Future aircraft
At Airbus, we are designing the next generation of future aircraft to have lower emissions by optimising aerodynamic performance…
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Airbus NOVA Newsletter
Your go-to source for the latest stories on disruptive technologies and ground-breaking aerospace projects that will transform the way we fly.
Aircraft operations
Aircraft operations
Pioneering safer, more efficient and interoperable flight
Technology for safe and efficient operations
To facilitate the work of aircraft operators and air traffic management, Airbus is developing new, more efficient operational technologies. This includes solutions to optimise flight trajectories and digital air traffic management solutions that can safely and efficiently integrate unmanned traffic and more autonomous flights.
As part of the quest to pioneer sustainable aerospace, Airbus is also investigating how improving aircraft operations can reduce noise pollution and both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions such as NOx, contrails and aerosols.
Aircraft operations at Airbus
The latest in aircraft operations
In the spotlight
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Stories Innovation
Soaring towards future aircraft
Airbus’ next-generation single aisle aircraft will incorporate novel technologies related to propulsion, wings, hybridisation, materials and systems. -
Press releases Innovation
Airbus advances key technologies for next-generation single-aisle aircraft
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Press releases Innovation
New pilot assistance technologies take to the road with Airbus' Optimate demonstrator
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Stories Defence
Aerial refuelling without human intervention
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Stories Helicopters
UTM is a key enabler of AAM
More in innovation at Airbus
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Energy transition
Discover Airbus’ energy transition roadmap with low-emission propulsion tech: sustainable aviation fuels, hydrogen, hybrid…
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Digital transformation
Airbus’ digital transformation is about integrating advanced technologies and concepts throughout the product lifecycle, from…
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Innovation ecosystem
Airbus cultivates an innovation ecosystem where internal experts and external stakeholders come together to translate ideas into…
-
Future aircraft
At Airbus, we are designing the next generation of future aircraft to have lower emissions by optimising aerodynamic performance…
-
Airbus NOVA Newsletter
Your go-to source for the latest stories on disruptive technologies and ground-breaking aerospace projects that will transform the way we fly.
Future aircraft
Future aircraft
Unlocking the potential of tomorrow’s materials and technologies
Designing the next generation of aircraft
SHAPING THE FUTURE
At Airbus, we are designing the next generation of low-emission aircraft to seamlessly combine cutting-edge technology with environmental responsibility.
Every aspect of a future aircraft’s architecture is being carefully considered to optimise aerodynamic performance and fuel efficiency. From innovative positioning of engines and even foldable wingtips, to SAF-ready open fan rotors and hydrogen fuel cells, each design choice will contribute to maximising efficiency in flight and reducing emissions.
Throughout the design process, we are evaluating the circularity of materials and technology, ensuring that every component is optimised for longevity and efficiency over an aircraft’s entire lifecycle. Lightweight, durable materials that are sourced responsibly will feature heavily in future aircraft, including advanced composites, bio-fibres, and bio-sourced resins.
Equally important is the need for efficient and scalable production of the aircraft. We are enabling this through advancements in digitalisation, connectivity and autonomy, ensuring that the aircraft of tomorrow is both efficient to produce and affordable to fly.
Design factors
Our flight demonstrators
The latest in future aircraft
In the spotlight
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Stories Innovation
Soaring towards future aircraft
Airbus’ next-generation single aisle aircraft will incorporate novel technologies related to propulsion, wings, hybridisation, materials and systems. -
Press releases Innovation
Airbus advances key technologies for next-generation single-aisle aircraft
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Stories Innovation
Fantastic thermoplastics
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Stories Innovation
Developing bio-based composites that are fit to fly
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Press releases Sustainability
New consortium to enable zero emission aviation to take off in Aotearoa New Zealand
More in innovation at Airbus
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Energy transition
Discover Airbus’ energy transition roadmap with low-emission propulsion tech: sustainable aviation fuels, hydrogen, hybrid…
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Aircraft operations
Welcome to the future of aircraft operations – where innovation meets efficiency and sustainability.
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Digital transformation
Airbus’ digital transformation is about integrating advanced technologies and concepts throughout the product lifecycle, from…
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Innovation ecosystem
Airbus cultivates an innovation ecosystem where internal experts and external stakeholders come together to translate ideas into…
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Airbus NOVA newsletter
Your go-to source for the latest on the disruptive technologies and ground-breaking aerospace projects that will transform the way we fly.
Digital transformation
Digital transformation
A digital-first approach to designing and operating aerospace products
Developing a digital ecosystem
THE DIGITAL REVOLUTION
Airbus is leveraging advanced digital technologies to revolutionise how we design, produce and operate our products. We are adapting our production facilities and industrial ecosystem to embrace digital methods and are accelerating the integration of smart manufacturing, known as Industry 4.0, into our operations.
Our company-wide programme DDMS (Digital Design Manufacturing and Services) sets new industry standards for interconnecting platforms and increasing data exchange, resulting in improved and more efficient collaboration. In tandem, we are exploring how artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced analytics and connectivity can solve design, manufacturing and operation challenges.
This digital revolution is taking place at every level of operations within Airbus, driving innovation and excellence throughout our ecosystem. It encourages teams to embrace digital tools, streamline processes, enhance efficiency and revolutionise production methods. It plays a key role in supporting our purpose of pioneering sustainable aerospace for a safe and united world.
Digital transformation at Airbus
The latest in digital transformation
In the spotlight
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Stories Innovation
Improving the world we live in with AI-powered products
Some Airbus space products help address land use issues by using artificial intelligence to improve satellite imagery analysis. -
Press releases Innovation
Quantum Leaps: Winners of Airbus and BMW Group’s Quantum Computing Challenge Unveiled
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Stories Airbus Foundation
Airbus Foundation launches immersive AI experience for teens
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Press releases Innovation
Airbus, Accuray and the Oncopole use artificial intelligence to improve the…
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Stories Innovation
The Future is Calling: Unveiling Airbus' Private 5G Network
More in innovation at Airbus
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Energy transition
Discover Airbus’ energy transition roadmap with low-emission propulsion tech: sustainable aviation fuels, hydrogen, hybrid…
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Aircraft operations
Welcome to the future of aircraft operations – where innovation meets efficiency and sustainability.
-
Innovation ecosystem
Airbus cultivates an innovation ecosystem where internal experts and external stakeholders come together to translate ideas into…
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Future aircraft
At Airbus, we are designing the next generation of future aircraft to have lower emissions by optimising aerodynamic performance…
-
Airbus NOVA Newsletter
Your go-to source for the latest stories on disruptive technologies and ground-breaking aerospace projects that will transform the way we fly.
Innovation ecosystem
Innovation ecosystem
Leveraging collective intelligence to deliver results
Nurturing an innovation ecosystem
Innovation happens when great ideas, people and challenges intersect. A robust innovation ecosystem thrives at Airbus, fuelled by collaboration and a desire to transform new ideas into aerospace industry breakthroughs. This ecosystem is responsible for some of our most innovative technologies, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aerospace engineering and beyond.
Innovation ecosystem at Airbus
The latest in innovation ecosystem
In the spotlight
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News Space
Airbus and partners demonstrate very high speed optical link between Earth and Space
CNES and Airbus prove that massive, rapid ground to space data transfer is possible with TELEO succesful tests -
Press releases Innovation
Airbus and Toshiba to partner on superconductivity research
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Stories Innovation
Airbus and SESAR partners are taking wake energy retrieval to the next level
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Press releases Helicopters
Airbus Racer speeds past 400 km/h
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Press releases Innovation
Airbus takes superconductivity research for hydrogen-powered aircraft a step further
More in innovation at Airbus
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Energy transition
Discover Airbus’ energy transition roadmap with low-emission propulsion tech: sustainable aviation fuels, hydrogen, hybrid…
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Aircraft operations
Welcome to the future of aircraft operations – where innovation meets efficiency and sustainability.
-
Digital transformation
Airbus’ digital transformation is about integrating advanced technologies and concepts throughout the product lifecycle, from…
-
Future aircraft
At Airbus, we are designing the next generation of future aircraft to have lower emissions by optimising aerodynamic performance…
-
Airbus NOVA Newsletter
Your go-to source for the latest stories on disruptive technologies and ground-breaking aerospace projects that will transform the way we fly.
Pioneering sustainable aerospace for a safe and united world
Pioneering sustainable aerospace for a safe and united world
Our purpose in action
Airbus stories
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Stories Innovation
Digital Twins: Accelerating aerospace innovation from design to operations
Discover how cutting-edge digital twin technology is accelerating innovation, from smarter design and manufacturing to predictive…
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Stories Innovation
How to mitigate contrails and other non-CO₂ emissions
Airbus and aviation industry leaders are working to reduce non-CO₂ emissions, including contrails, through new fuel types and…
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Stories Innovation
Improving the world we live in with AI-powered products
Some Airbus space products help address land use issues by using artificial intelligence to improve satellite imagery analysis.
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Stories Sustainability
Airbus Foundation and Solar Impulse Foundation launch call for projects
Airbus Foundation, Solar Impulse Foundation and Space4Good launch call for projects that address nature-based climate resilience.
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Stories Innovation
Soaring towards future aircraft
Airbus’ next-generation single aisle aircraft will incorporate novel technologies related to propulsion, wings, hybridisation,…
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Stories Helicopters
Scientific research in Antarctica with the Airbus H125
On World Water Day, Airbus sheds light on the H125's contribution to scientific research missions in the Antarctic.
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Meet Florian, Services Financial Controller at Airbus in Washington DC, US
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Meet Allie, Stress Engineer at Airbus in the US
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Our latest news and events
In the spotlight
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Stories Space
Biomass, a satellite to look inside the world’s forests like never before
The ESA Biomass satellite, built by Airbus, monitors forests to evaluate carbon stocks and their impact on climate change. -
Stories Helicopters
H140: finding the perfect balance on the cutting edge
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Stories Helicopters
Send in the Super Puma for aerial firefighting operations
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Stories Defence
Airbus and European innovation - Imagining a future combat aircraft cockpit
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Stories Innovation
Non-CO2 emissions and contrails, explained
Airbus Full-Year (FY) 2024 financial results
At a glance
We achieved strong order intake across all businesses in 2024, with a book-to-bill well above 1, confirming the solid demand for our products and services. We delivered on our 2024 guidance in what was a testing year for Airbus. We refocused our efforts on key priorities, notably the production ramp-up and the transformation of Defence and Space. We continue to pursue profitable growth and our decarbonisation ambition. The 2024 financial results and the level of confidence we have in our future performance support our proposal for an increased dividend.