DefenseAirbus Flexrotor selected for European maritime surveillance missions
The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) has selected the Airbus Flexrotor unmanned aerial vehicle for multipurpose maritime surveillance missions, beginning December 17 across Europe. Operations will be conducted under a two-year contract, with potential extensions, and initial deployments are scheduled to start in 2026.
The agreement aims to enhance coast guard surveillance and support law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental monitoring missions. Airbus is contracted to deliver remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) services, utilizing the Flexrotor platform as part of a turnkey solution.
The Flexrotor is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) UAV with a maximum takeoff weight of 25 kg and endurance of 12 to 14 hours. It is designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) roles, supporting a range of payloads including electro-optical systems and advanced sensors.
French company Extensee will operate the Flexrotor under the contract, providing services on behalf of EMSA. The contract includes two possible one-year extensions, allowing for up to four years of operations if all options are exercised.
“We are proud to partner with the European Maritime Safety Agency on this turnkey contract that enables the Flexrotor to fly operationally for the first time in Europe and serve the critical mission of enhancing maritime surveillance,” said Victor Gerin-Roze, Head of Unmanned Aerial Systems at Airbus Helicopters.
EMSA has progressively expanded its RPAS service portfolio to support EU member states’ maritime authorities. The addition of the Flexrotor aligns with broader trends in integrating UAVs into routine coast guard and environmental operations across Europe.
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