Airbus outlines Logistics Connector plan and partners with L3Harris
Airbus has said it is aiming to have a flyable prototype of the Logistics Connector MQ-72C by 2028. (Image: Airbus Space and Defense)
Airbus says it will aim to have a working prototype of the MQ-72C Logistics Connector by the end of the decade as it bids for a contract with the US Marine Corps.
Airbus US Space and Defense will aim to have a flyable prototype of the Logistics Connector MQ-72C by 2028 and have a final design ready for full production by 2029.
“We want to be ready for low-rate initial production (LRIP) by 2030 if that’s what US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) wants to do,” said Rob Geckle, chairman and CEO of Airbus US Space and Defense.
The company has been competing for a contract for the US Marines Corps (USMC) to develop Connector, an autonomous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) uncrewed aerial system (UAS) designed for transportation operations in contested
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks]()
Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks
Both sixth-generation combat aircraft programmes are still awaiting major key decisions from respective governments with regards to funding or future direction, but industry and governmental officials remain optimistic of progress going forward.
-
![SOF Week 2026: AFSOC unveils deployable Block II OA-1K Skyraider II]()
SOF Week 2026: AFSOC unveils deployable Block II OA-1K Skyraider II
AFSOC has revealed a new Block II variant of the OA-1K Skyraider II featuring rapid deployment and reassembly capabilities designed to support expeditionary special operations missions.
-
![British Army's Project Nyx progress reflects MoD investment in autonomous system]()
British Army's Project Nyx progress reflects MoD investment in autonomous system
The UK MoD said it would narrow down the competitors from four to two later in the year, with those selected going on to develop the prototype drone that will operate as loyal wingman to the British Army’s Apache AH-64E helicopters.
-
![UH-60M Black Hawk: export demand underpins $13 billion market opportunity]()
UH-60M Black Hawk: export demand underpins $13 billion market opportunity
The UH-60M is the latest variant of the UH-60, a workhorse multirole helicopter that continues to attract further orders from across the globe. With further modernisation upgrades underway, the platform is expected to remain in operation until 2050.
