MBDA backs British startup to continue development on heavy-lift drone
The Hydra 400 concept was first unveiled in 2023. (Photo: Hybrid Drones)
MBDA has announced its investment in UK company Hybrid Drones which produces the Hydra 400 uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV).
The partnership, a continuation of its original collaboration, will see MBDA work with Hybrid Drones to integrate MBDA effectors and work alongside the smaller company to support new defence technologies.
According to Hybrid Drones, this is one of the first investments by MBDA in a UK-based SME, which it claimed underlined the UK’s defence industrial strategy to invest and support small businesses.
Dr Stephen Prior, CEO of Hybrid Drones Ltd, said: “In light of an increasing need to invest in our indigenous technological
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
UK MoD awards Ascent with eight-year contract to upgrade RAF and Royal Navy flight training
Funding of £300 million will go towards training personnel on the FIRCTS programmes to meet a growing demand for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) platforms.
-
Airbus, Babcock and CAE partner for Poland helicopter training requirement
Poland first issued a requirement for up to 24 helicopters and associated training systems in January 2024.
-
Next generation jammers ordered for Royal Australian Air Force and US Navy Growlers
The order includes jammers for Australian EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft follows an order for deployment on US Navy Growlers in December last year and an announcement in March that full-rate production was near.
-
Uncertainty remains as Trump boasts F-55 and F-22 Super aircraft programmes
While details are light after the President’s comments, the US Air Force (USAF) has long needed to boost its fighter aircraft capabilities, according to USAF and analyst viewpoints.
-
TAI and Airbus collaborate on Hurjet trainer for Spain
The Hurjet is pitched as the front runner for the Spanish Air Force’s Advanced Jet Trainer replacement programme for its ageing F-5M aircraft.