Airbus Helicopters Signs Contract for 18 Flexrotor Drones with Garuda
Airbus Helicopters and Garuda Technologies Inc. have entered into a contract for the delivery of up to 18 Flexrotor unmanned aerial systems. Garuda will incorporate these devices into its global leasing portfolio to offer both dry and wet leasing services to its clients.
Strategic Partnership and Contract Details
Airbus Helicopters and Garuda Technologies Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Indian-based Garuda Aerospace Limited, have signed a delivery contract for up to 18 Flexrotor unmanned aerial systems. Garuda will offer Flexrotor services to its clients under dry and wet lease arrangements, covering a broad spectrum of civil and quasi-public missions: infrastructure inspection (roads, railways, oil and gas pipelines, power lines), law enforcement, research, fire monitoring, and disaster relief. Delaware-based Garuda Technologies Inc. is currently expanding into the North American market.
Technical Specifications of the Flexrotor
The Flexrotor is a lightweight tactical unmanned aerial system with extended endurance, capable of flying for over 12 to 14 hours in typical operational configurations. Weighing 25 kg, it can be equipped with a wide range of sensors including electro-optical systems and advanced sensors. The device is capable of autonomous takeoff and landing from confined terrestrial areas or ships without flight decks, requiring a minimal surface area of 3.7 by 3.7 meters. Its deployment time from folded state to takeoff is less than 30 minutes.
Global Reach and Market Presence of Garuda Technologies
Garuda Technologies Inc. manufactures and markets unmanned aerial systems to over 500 institutional and government clients globally. The group boasts over one million flight hours and has a diversified presence in the agricultural, defense, and industrial sectors. In India, Garuda holds a 30% market share in the agricultural drone segment.
