This article is based on an official press release from MatrixSpace and additional industry data.

MatrixSpace Unveils Fusion 360: A Multi-Sensor Approach to Portable Airspace Defense

On February 12, 2026, Burlington, Massachusetts-based MatrixSpace announced the launch of MatrixSpace Fusion 360, a new counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) designed to bring military-grade airspace awareness to commercial and public safety markets. The system integrates Radar-Systems, optical, and Radio Frequency (RF) sensors into a single, AI-native platform, aiming to solve the persistent issue of false alarms and “dark drone” detection in civilian environments.

According to the company’s announcement, the Fusion 360 system is engineered to address the logistical and financial barriers that have historically prevented stadiums, critical infrastructure, and local law enforcement from deploying advanced airspace security. By processing data at the “edge”, on the device itself rather than in a cloud server, MatrixSpace claims the system can deliver verified threat assessments rapidly, without the bandwidth dependencies of traditional systems.

Moving Beyond Single-Sensor Limitations

The core technological shift introduced with Fusion 360 is its “fusion-native” architecture. Traditional low-cost C-UAS solutions often rely on a single sensor type, such as RF detection, which can be ineffective against autonomous Drones that do not transmit signals. Conversely, standalone radar systems can struggle with false positives, mistaking birds for drones.

MatrixSpace states that Fusion 360 correlates data from three distinct sources to verify targets:

• 4D Imaging Radar: Detects physical movement, range, altitude, and velocity in various weather conditions.
• RF and Remote ID Sensors: Decodes signals from compliant drones and detects pilot emissions.
• Optical Verification: Automatically cues cameras to the radar track for visual confirmation.

Addressing the “Dark Drone” Threat

A significant capability highlighted in the release is the system’s ability to detect “dark drones”, unmanned aircraft that do not broadcast Remote ID or RF signals. By utilizing a radar-first architecture, the system tracks the physical object regardless of its electronic emissions. Once a track is established, the system’s AI cues a Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) camera to provide visual confirmation, allowing operators to distinguish between actual threats and benign objects.

Technical Specifications and Portability

The system is designed for low Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C), a critical requirement for temporary events and mobile security units. According to technical details released regarding the component specifications, the radar unit is approximately the size of a large smartphone (8.7cm x 14.1cm) and weighs roughly 0.45 kg.

In terms of performance, the system offers the following detection ranges:

• Small Drones (e.g., DJI Phantom 4): Detection at approximately 1 km, with tracking at 750 meters.
• General Aviation: Detection up to 2.5 km.

The platform runs on the MatrixSpace AiEdge software layer, which allows for local data processing. This capability ensures that the system remains operational even if connectivity to a central command center is severed, a vital feature for emergency response scenarios.

AirPro News Analysis

The launch of Fusion 360 represents a broader trend in the 2026 counter-drone market: the democratization of “layered” defense. Historically, fusing radar, RF, and optical data required complex integration of disparate systems from different vendors, often at a price point only accessible to national defense agencies.

By packaging these three layers into a portable, cohesive unit, MatrixSpace is directly challenging established players like Dedrone and Echodyne. While competitors often rely on integrating third-party hardware, MatrixSpace’s strategy of building both the radar hardware and the AI software allows for tighter integration and potentially lower costs. This move aligns with the increasing regulatory pressure on facility managers to monitor airspace following the FAA’s 2026 integration roadmap.

Company Background and Market Position

Founded in 2019, MatrixSpace is led by CEO Greg Waters, formerly of Integrated Device Technology and Skyworks Solutions. The company has raised approximately $62.3 million to date, including a Series B round completed in late 2025. The company has previously secured wins in the U.S. Army’s xTechCounter Strike competition, signaling that while its focus is shifting toward commercial accessibility, its underlying technology retains military validation.

The Fusion 360 launch positions the company to capture the “middle market” of airspace security, users who need more than a simple RF scanner but cannot afford heavy, fixed-site military installations.

Sources

• MatrixSpace Press Release
• MatrixSpace Official Website

This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.

French Navy to Launch Operations with Airbus Aliaca Vertical UAS in 2026

The French Navy (Marine Nationale) is set to become the launch operator for the new vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) variant of the Aliaca Uncrewed Aerial System (UAV). According to an official press release from Airbus Helicopters issued on February 3, 2026, the acquisition is being executed through an amendment to the existing “SMDM” (Système de Mini Drones aériens embarqués pour la Marine) contract.

Deliveries of the new Aliaca Vertical are scheduled to begin in May 2026, following the completion of a final qualification campaign. The system is manufactured by Survey Copter, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Airbus Helicopters, which has been supplying the standard fixed-wing version of the Drones to the French Navy since 2022. This new agreement marks a significant evolution in the fleet, introducing VTOL capabilities to enhance operational flexibility on vessels with limited deck space.

The procurement is overseen by the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA), which has ordered a total of 34 Aliaca systems since the program’s inception. While the fixed-wing variant remains in service on larger frigates, the new VTOL configuration is designed to support a wider range of maritime missions, including coastal security, search and rescue, and anti-trafficking operations.

Operational Capabilities and Technical Specifications

The primary advantage of the Aliaca Vertical is its ability to operate without the heavy logistical footprint required by its predecessor. The standard Aliaca relies on a catapult for launch and a net for recovery, necessitating specific deck infrastructure. In contrast, the VTOL version utilizes a hybrid Propulsion system featuring four vertical rotors for lift and a rear pusher propeller for cruise flight, allowing it to launch and land autonomously on small decks.

Performance Metrics

According to technical specifications released by Airbus and industry data, the Aliaca Vertical retains the compact architecture of the combat-proven fixed-wing model while adapting to vertical flight requirements. Key specifications include:

• Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW): 25 kg (approximately 55 lbs).
• Wingspan: 3.5 meters.
• Range: 50 km (27 nautical miles) for data link and control.
• Endurance: 2 hours.
• Propulsion: Electric/Hybrid system capable of silent operation.

The system carries a gyro-stabilized Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) gimbal for day and night surveillance, as well as an Automatic Identification System (AIS) to track ship transponders. This payload suite allows the drone to identify unknown vessels and monitor pollution or illegal activities from a safe distance.

Strategic Context: The SMDM Program

The SMDM program was established to provide French naval units with an organic, over-the-horizon aerial surveillance capability. Since its certification in 2022, the system has been integrated into various naval platforms. The introduction of the VTOL variant addresses the need for rapid deployment from smaller patrol boats, mine hunters, or even land-based positions where runway or catapult infrastructure is unavailable.

Christophe Canguilhem, the Aliaca Programme Director at Airbus Helicopters, highlighted the maturity of the solution in a statement regarding the contract amendment.

“We are proud to be able to deliver the VTOL version of the Aliaca to the French Navy for the first time… With the VTOL version, the French Navy will be able to operate the Aliaca with even more flexibility.”

Christophe Canguilhem, Airbus Helicopters

AirPro News Analysis

The shift toward VTOL configurations in naval aviation reflects a broader industry trend aimed at reducing the “cost of entry” for drone operations. By eliminating the need for catapults and recovery nets, navies can equip non-specialized vessels with sophisticated surveillance assets. While the VTOL variant offers slightly reduced endurance compared to the three-hour flight time typical of fixed-wing models, the trade-off provides critical versatility for “pop-up” missions where rapid reaction time is paramount. We anticipate that this mixed-fleet approach, utilizing fixed-wing drones for endurance and VTOL drones for flexibility, will become a standard model for modern naval forces.

Sources

• Airbus

This article is based on an official press release from Volatus Aerospace Inc. and additional technical data regarding the Dufour Aero2 platform.

Volatus Aerospace Accelerates Cargo Drone Strategy with New Simulator and Dufour Partnership Update

On January 27, 2026, Volatus Aerospace Inc. (TSX: FLT) announced a significant progression in its strategic partnership with Swiss manufacturer Dufour Aerospace. The collaboration aims to deploy runway-independent cargo solutions specifically designed for austere environments, including the Arctic, defense sectors, and commercial critical infrastructure.

According to the company’s announcement, the partnership has moved from initial alignment to active capability development. A central component of this update is the installation of a dedicated Aero2 simulator at the Volatus facility in Toronto. This infrastructure is intended to accelerate pilot training, refine operational concepts (CONOPS), and facilitate mission rehearsal for future deployments.

Bridging the “Middle-Mile” Gap

The primary focus of the collaboration is the adaptation and deployment of the Dufour Aero2, a hybrid-electric eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-off and Landing) aircraft. Volatus Aerospace has identified a critical market need for “middle-mile” logistics, transporting payloads between 20 and 50 kilograms over distances exceeding 100 kilometers without relying on traditional airport infrastructure.

In its statement, Volatus highlighted three key strategic focus areas for the platform:

• Arctic and Remote Operations: Leveraging the company’s cold-weather expertise to ensure the aircraft can operate in Northern environments where ice roads are becoming less reliable.
• Defense Logistics: Providing resupply capabilities for military missions in areas where runways are unavailable or compromised.
• Commercial Infrastructure: Servicing mining, energy, and utility sectors that require rapid delivery of critical parts or samples.

Technical Capabilities of the Aero2

The Aero2 is designed to function as a “runway-independent” uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV). It combines the vertical take-off capabilities of a helicopter with the aerodynamic efficiency of a fixed-wing airplane. According to technical specifications released regarding the platform, the aircraft offers distinct advantages for long-range cargo transport.

“The Aero2 is a ‘runway-independent’ uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to bridge the gap between small drones and traditional helicopters.”

, Technical Report on Volatus & Dufour Partnership

Data regarding the Aero2 platform indicates the following performance metrics:

• Standard Range: 400 km (215 NM) with a 40 kg payload.
• Long Range: Up to 1,390 km (750 NM) with a reduced payload of 10 kg.
• Cruise Speed: Approximately 150 km/h (81 knots).
• Propulsion: Distributed electric propulsion featuring four main motors and one tail motor, supported by a hybrid module.

AirPro News Analysis

The installation of a physical simulator in Toronto signals a shift from theoretical partnership to operational readiness. By investing in pilot training infrastructure before the widespread commercial deployment of the airframes, Volatus appears to be mitigating the “adoption lag” often seen in the eVTOL sector.

Furthermore, the dual-use strategy, targeting both commercial resource sectors and defense markets, provides a hedge against volatility in either sector. The alignment with Canada’s NORAD modernization priorities, specifically the need for Arctic surveillance and logistics, suggests that Volatus is positioning the Aero2 not just as a delivery drone, but as a strategic asset for northern sovereignty.

Strategic Context and Market Impact

The partnership comes amid a broader push for modernization in Canada’s northern defense strategy. The press release and associated reports note that Volatus recently secured a C$9 million defense contract to supply ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) training systems to a NATO partner. The addition of the Aero2 capabilities aligns with these existing defense activities.

Additionally, the company emphasizes its relationship with Indigenous Aerospace. This collaboration is intended to ensure that remote First Nations communities benefit commercially and operationally from the introduction of these technologies, particularly for year-round community resupply and medical deliveries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Dufour Aero2?

The Aero2 is a hybrid-electric tilt-wing aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL). It is designed for uncrewed cargo aircraft transport over medium to long distances.

Why is the simulator installation important?

The simulator allows Volatus to train pilots and develop safety procedures (CONOPS) without the risk or cost of flying actual aircraft, accelerating the timeline for regulatory approval and commercial service.

What industries will this serve?

The primary targets are defense (resupply and logistics), mining and energy (critical parts delivery), and remote community supply (medical and food logistics in the Arctic).

Sources: Volatus Aerospace Press Release, Dufour Aerospace Technical Specifications