Robinson launches new uncrewed aircraft business unit, unveils new UAS cargo platform
The R66 Turbinetruck equipped with Sikorsky’s Matrix system. (Photo: Robinson Unmanned)
The new entity incorporates crewed and uncrewed capabilities to tackle a variety of mission demands in both defence and commercial markets.
Robinson Helicopter Company has unveiled a new business unit focused on the development of scalable uncrewed autonomous aircraft in a move that marks a structural shift for the rotorcraft manufacturer.
The new unit, called Robinson Unmanned, merges existing small uncrewed aerial system (UAS) developer Ascent Aerosystems – which manufactures small Group 1 and Group 2 co-axial UAS platforms that include Helius and Spirit – with its larger, uncrewed Group 3 and Group 4 platforms, developed from Robinson Helicopter’s R44 and R66 aircraft.
“By folding the Rotor Technologies R44 remotely piloted solutions into our existing fleet of Ascent small and technology-agnostic, heavy-lift drones, we are
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
-
![India’s military integration drive faces interoperability hurdles]()
India’s military integration drive faces interoperability hurdles
Senior military leaders have highlighted the need for interoperable systems, common data standards and closer cooperation between India's armed services.
-
![UK A400M Saudi deployment highlights airlifter’s role as Airbus pursues upgrades]()
UK A400M Saudi deployment highlights airlifter’s role as Airbus pursues upgrades
Airbus is developing new capabilities for its A400M transport aircraft as European countries consider future airlift requirements and the UK plans to deploy the aircraft to Saudi Arabia.
-
![The new generation of defence companies emerging from the US UAV boom]()
The new generation of defence companies emerging from the US UAV boom
As the Pentagon accelerates procurement of low-cost, lethal UAVs through its Drone Dominance Program, emerging suppliers will need to demonstrate manufacturing capacity, supply chain resilience and reliability.
-
![US Coast Guard faces key procurement decisions after C-130J and MQ-9B orders]()
US Coast Guard faces key procurement decisions after C-130J and MQ-9B orders
The service is updating several parts of its aviation fleet including fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft and procuring uncrewed aircraft to boost its maritime surveillance.
