Airbus Helicopters has secured an order from the French Aeronautical Maintenance Directorate (DMAé) for additional U050 Capa-X uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
According to Airbus, the new order consists of four systems, each comprising two drones intended for both the French Navy and Army as part of the Light Tactical Drone System (SDTL) programme.
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The newly ordered systems are slated to be delivered next year.
The DMAé, which is responsible for ensuring the operational availability and cost-efficiency of military aircraft and aeronautical equipment in France, placed the order after French forces evaluated an initial U050 Capa-X system acquired at the end of 2025.
Airbus said the system met the requirements of the SDTL programme after being assessed in both land and maritime trials with different French forces in 2025 and early 2026.
The drone demonstrated a 7-hour endurance, the ability to carry dual payloads, and an effective operational range of 100km.
Airbus Helicopters uncrewed aerial systems head Victor Gerin-Roze said: “This initial version of the U050 Capa-X is designed to evolve both in its design and the scope of its missions to adapt to the constantly changing needs of the armed forces.
“This is the core advantage of its modularity, which allows us to reinforce and expand its capabilities over time.”
The U050 Capa-X platform weighs 120kg and is capable of operating up to 100km from a ground station using a direct data link.
According to Airbus, the UAS can remain airborne for up to ten hours and carry payloads of up to 20kg. It is also capable of carrying more than one payload at a time and can be quickly adapted for different types of missions.
In its current configuration, the U050 Capa-X is equipped with an optronic pod for imagery intelligence (IMINT), intended for surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational analysis.
The drone also includes a signals intelligence (SIGINT) capability to broaden its information-gathering scope.
However, Airbus noted that the U050 Capa-X’s basic design can be updated over time to incorporate new features in response to changing operational requirements.
