UAV & Drones
AERO Asia 2025 Highlights Growth in Low-Altitude Economy and Aviation Tech
AERO Asia 2025 expands showcasing low-altitude aviation with 380+ exhibitors, boosting China’s sustainable aviation market growth.
AERO Asia 2025 Takes Flight, The Low-Altitude Economy Takes Center Stage
We are witnessing a pivotal moment in the global general aviation sector as AERO Asia 2025 officially opens its doors today, November 27, 2025, at the Zhuhai International Airshow Center. Organized through a strategic joint venture between Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and Zhuhai Airshow Group Co Ltd, this event has rapidly evolved into a premier platform for the industry. The show’s second edition has nearly doubled in scale compared to its 2023 debut, a clear indicator of the surging interest and investment in Asian aviation markets.
The event, running through November 30, hosts over 380 exhibitors from 22 countries and regions, occupying a sprawling 60,000 square meters of exhibition space. With more than 170 dynamic and static aircraft on display, the show serves as a critical bridge connecting global general aviation (GA) enterprises with the burgeoning demands of the Chinese market. We see this expansion not merely as a trade show statistic, but as a reflection of a broader economic shift toward sustainable and urban air mobility solutions.
At the heart of this year’s exhibition is the concept of the “Low-Altitude Economy,” a sector that has recently been prioritized by China’s central government. By focusing on flight activities below 3,000 meters, encompassing drones, eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft), and helicopters, AERO Asia 2025 is positioning itself as the operational hub for this “strategic emerging industry.”
The Economic Engine: Policy and Projections
The driving force behind the rapid expansion of AERO Asia is the strategic push for the Low-Altitude Economy within the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and across China. The sector has been designated a priority in China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), signaling long-term governmental support for infrastructure and regulatory development. This policy framework provides the stability required for international and domestic companies to invest heavily in research and development.
Market projections underscore the significance of this sector. Data from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) suggests that the low-altitude market is on track to reach approximately 1.5 trillion yuan (roughly $210 billion USD) by the end of 2025. Looking further ahead, forecasts predict the market could swell to 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035. These figures illustrate why Zhuhai, already famous for its massive military and commercial airshows, is aggressively cultivating an image as the center for General Aviation and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
We observe that this economic potential is attracting a diverse range of participants, from established state-owned enterprises to agile, high-growth startups. The convergence of policy support and market demand has created a fertile environment for innovation, particularly in the realm of electric and hybrid propulsion systems.
“The show’s expanded second edition is testament to the vast potential of general aviation in Asia-Pacific and China’s world-leading ‘low-altitude economy’… We fully expect AERO Asia to go from strength to strength.”, Ms. Wendy Wen, Managing Director, Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd.
Technological Frontiers: eVTOLs and Hybrid Systems
The exhibition floor this year is dominated by advancements in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), with several companies using AERO Asia 2025 as a launchpad for new technologies. A standout example is the Zero Gravity Aircraft Industry (Zero-G), which is debuting the ZG-T6. This 6-seater tilt-rotor eVTOL is designed specifically for future air taxi services, representing the third tier of Zero-G’s strategy, which also includes electric trainer aircraft and tourism-focused eVTOLs.
Addressing the critical industry challenge of “range anxiety,” Shangshi Aerospace has unveiled significant power innovations, including the TP800 Turbine Propeller Power System and the GTG800, a 600kW-class turbogenerator. These systems are vital for the development of hybrid-electric aircraft, offering a bridge between traditional combustion engines and fully electric solutions. By extending the operational range of aircraft, these technologies make regional air mobility a more practical reality in the near term.
Commercialization is also a major theme, with Volant Aerotech conducting signing ceremonies for its VE25-100 passenger eVTOL. Having secured significant orders, Volant is positioning itself as a frontrunner in the race to bring air taxis to market. Additionally, Chenxiang Aerospace is highlighting the integration of ground and air systems with the launch of the CXBOX25-1, a next-generation vehicle-mounted drone, showcasing the versatility of unmanned systems in logistics and surveillance.
Global Collaboration and Industry Standards
Beyond the hardware, AERO Asia 2025 emphasizes the importance of international dialogue and safety standards. The event features a robust fringe program, including the “Future of Advanced Air Mobility” forum. Here, industry leaders from SkyDrive (Japan), Volocopter (Germany), and Eve Air Mobility (Brazil) are gathering to discuss the regulatory ecosystems necessary to support AAM across the Asia-Pacific region. We believe these discussions are crucial for harmonizing regulations and ensuring cross-border operability.
Safety remains a paramount concern as the skies become busier. The GABA Safety International Symposium, organized by the Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA), is addressing safety standards specifically for the low-altitude sector. Furthermore, the Sustainable Aviation Forum is exploring the commercial potential of green aviation technologies, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
The event also offers spectacle alongside business, with aerobatic displays serving to demonstrate the capabilities of modern aircraft. The South African AERO Aerobatic Team, led by champion pilot Mark Hensman, is performing in Zhuhai for the first time. They are joined by the Chinese Red Star Aerobatic Team, notable for being the first civilian team to utilize the domestically manufactured CJ-6 aircraft, symbolizing the maturity of China’s indigenous aviation manufacturing.
Concluding Section
As AERO Asia 2025 continues through the week, it is clear that the event has established itself as a cornerstone for the Asian general aviation market. The doubling of exhibitors and the high profile of the technologies on display reflect a sector that is moving rapidly from concept to commercial reality. The strong focus on the Low-Altitude Economy aligns perfectly with regional economic strategies, promising substantial growth over the next decade.
We anticipate that the innovations and partnerships forged in Zhuhai this week will have lasting ripples throughout the industry. As regulatory frameworks mature and technology advances, the vision of a bustling, sustainable low-altitude economy appears increasingly within reach, with AERO Asia serving as a vital catalyst for this transformation.
FAQ
Question: When and where is AERO Asia 2025 taking place?
Answer: The event is currently active, running from November 27 to November 30, 2025, at the Zhuhai International Airshow Center in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, China.
Question: What is the “Low-Altitude Economy”?
Answer: The Low-Altitude Economy refers to an economic zone defined by flight activities below 3,000 meters. This includes the operation of civil drones, eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft), and helicopters for logistics, transport, and tourism.
Question: How large is the AERO Asia 2025 event?
Answer: The 2025 edition has nearly doubled in size since 2023, featuring over 380 exhibitors from 22 countries and regions, covering 60,000 square meters, and displaying over 170 aircraft.
Sources
Photo Credit: Aero Asia
UAV & Drones
GA-ASI and Fujitsu Sign MOU for MQ-9B Support in Japan
GA-ASI and Fujitsu signed an MOU to establish domestic MQ-9B maintenance and operational support in Japan.
To support Japan’s expanding fleet of MQ-9B Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and Fujitsu Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding on August 27, 2026, establishing domestic maintenance and operational support capabilities.
Announced in a joint press release, the agreement aims to secure a sustainable operational foundation for the aircraft as the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) increase intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions across the country’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Expanding maritime surveillance in Japan
Japan has actively expanded its unmanned maritime surveillance capabilities in response to a complex regional security environment. The JCG began operating the MQ-9B SeaGuardian from JMSDF Hachinohe Air Base in October 2022 to complement existing manned maritime patrol Military-Aircraft.
The Japanese MQ-9B fleet initially operated under a Company-Owned, Company-Operated (COCO) model managed by GA-ASI. The program proved successful, leading the Japanese government to convert the leased aircraft into direct sales and place additional Orders, a milestone GA-ASI announced on March 24, 2026.
Domestic sustainment and technical collaboration
The shift to direct ownership necessitates a localized sustainment infrastructure. The MOU between GA-ASI and Fujitsu covers discussions on Avionics maintenance, parts management, maintenance training, and support services within Japan. The companies will also explore future technical collaboration regarding mission systems and systems integration.
Fujitsu brings 10 years of accumulated experience and expertise in providing maintenance and operational support for maritime patrol aircraft operated by the JMSDF.
Kenichiro Miyazaki, Head of the National Security Business Unit for Fujitsu Limited, outlined the company’s role in the new agreement.
“We are delighted to have signed this MOU with GA-ASI to explore collaboration opportunities related to the MQ-9B. Leveraging the technological capabilities Fujitsu has cultivated in the defense sector, as well as our extensive experience in maintenance and operational support, we will contribute to strengthening a sustainable maintenance framework for the MQ-9B in Japan. This MOU marks the first step toward advancing the collaboration between our companies.”
AirPro News analysis
We view the Partnerships between GA-ASI and Fujitsu as a necessary maturation of the MQ-9B program in Japan. The transition from a contractor-operated leasing model to direct government ownership requires a robust, localized sustainment network. By aligning with Fujitsu, which already possesses a decade of experience supporting JMSDF maritime patrol aircraft, GA-ASI mitigates supply chain risks and ensures higher operational availability for a platform that has become central to Japan’s maritime domain awareness strategy.
Sources: Fujitsu Limited
Photo Credit: GA-ASI
UAV & Drones
AIR Partners With Elmo Motion Control for Cargo UAS Propulsion
AIR integrates Elmo air-cooled servo drives into its 550-lb payload Cargo-Heavy Lift UAS, removing liquid cooling systems.
Israeli electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) manufacturer AIR announced a strategic partnership with Elmo Motion Control on August 25, 2026, to integrate air-cooled servo drives into its Cargo-Heavy Lift uncrewed aircraft system (UAS), eliminating the need for heavier liquid-cooling systems.
In a press release, AIR detailed how the integration of Elmo’s technology will reduce overall system complexity and weight. This weight reduction allows the uncrewed cargo platform to maximize its 550-pound payload capacity for defense, commercial, and humanitarian logistics operations.
Technical specifications and propulsion architecture
The AIR Cargo-Heavy Lift UAS utilizes eight electric propulsion motors. Under the new partnership, these motors will be powered by Elmo’s Gold and Platinum high-voltage (HV) servo drives. The drives operate in a master-slave configuration, supplying 210 amps at 805 volts to each motor.
Rami Chanan, vice president of sales and marketing at Elmo Motion Control, noted that the compact, air-cooled design of the drives delivers exceptional power density while removing the necessity for liquid cooling.
“At Elmo, we’re passionate about helping our customers turn bold ideas into reality, and our collaboration with AIR is a perfect example of what’s possible when innovation meets engineering excellence,” Chanan said.
Production milestones and defense applications
The partnership follows AIR’s transition from prototype to production for the cargo platform, which completed its first flight on April 15, 2026. The aircraft is designed with a dual-use architecture intended for flexible logistics, mid-mile delivery, maritime resupply, and rapid aid deployments. It features a flight endurance of one hour.
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) categorizes the AIR cargo aircraft as a Group 4 UAS. According to the company, over 25 units of the Cargo-Heavy Lift UAS have been ordered and paid for to date.
AIR chief executive officer Rani Plaut emphasized the operational readiness of the platform and the role of the new propulsion components in meeting regulatory and customer standards.
“Working with Elmo will ensure that the future of autonomous flight and unmanned logistics are as safe as possible, while maintaining capabilities and meeting requirements across defense, commercial, and humanitarian needs,” Plaut stated.
Expanding supplier network
The Elmo Motion Control agreement is the second major supplier partnership AIR has finalized in 2026. On June 3, 2026, the manufacturer selected Dynon Avionics as the exclusive avionics provider for its entire aircraft portfolio, which includes both the Cargo-Heavy Lift UAS and the AIR ONE personal eVTOL.
According to reporting by AVweb, Dynon customized its SkyView HDX platform to manage electric propulsion and energy management specific to AIR’s aircraft architecture.
AirPro News analysis
Thermal management remains a critical bottleneck in the development of high-payload electric aircraft. By transitioning to an air-cooled servo drive system, AIR is addressing one of the primary weight penalties associated with high-voltage electric propulsion. Liquid cooling systems require pumps, reservoirs, and fluid lines, all of which add mass and introduce potential points of failure. If Elmo’s air-cooled drives can reliably manage the thermal loads of an 805-volt system during sustained hover and forward flight, we expect this architecture will yield measurable improvements in the aircraft’s payload fraction and operational reliability in austere environments.
Sources: AIR via PR Newswire
Photo Credit: AIR
UAV & Drones
GKN Aerospace Unveils UAV Demonstrator Under 12 Months
GKN Aerospace revealed a UAV demonstrator and turbojet engine in Sweden, under a year after a £12M FMV contract award.
GKN Aerospace has publicly unveiled a clean-sheet uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) demonstrator and a dedicated turbojet engine, reaching a major physical milestone less than a year after securing a development contract from the Swedish government.
According to a press release issued by the manufacturers on August 21, 2026, the platform was presented at The Armed Forces Air Venture 2026 in Sweden. The rapid progression from concept to physical hardware highlights a collaborative effort between GKN Aerospace, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), and the Swedish Armed Forces to explore future low-cost uncrewed aviation technologies.
Accelerated development timeline
The unveiling comes just months after the initial programme launch. In November 2025, FMV awarded GKN Aerospace an initial contract valued at approximately £12 million GBP to develop the system. The programme set an aggressive 18-month target to progress from launch to a flying capability.
The development integrates engineering expertise from GKN Aerospace facilities across Sweden, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Joakim Andersson, President Engines at GKN Aerospace, noted the speed of the project during the unveiling event.
“One year ago, this was an idea and an ambition. Today, we are unveiling the first tangible result of that work. That achievement reflects close collaboration with FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces and the combined expertise of teams across GKN Aerospace,” Andersson stated.
Next phases and flight testing
The presentation of the demonstrator at The Armed Forces Air Venture 2026 coincided with the centenary celebrations of the Swedish Air Force. With the ground demonstration milestone complete, the programme will transition into its next operational phase.
Upcoming work will focus on continued systems evaluation and preparations for future Test-Flights activities. The platform is designed to serve as a flexible testbed for the Swedish military to evaluate uncrewed capabilities and integrate new technologies.
Sara Eklöf, Senior Vice President Government Solutions at GKN Aerospace, indicated that the experience gained during this accelerated manufacturing phase will be critical as the programme advances toward active flight testing.
AirPro News analysis
We view this rapid prototyping effort as a clear indicator of shifting defense procurement strategies in Europe. By moving from a £12 million GBP contract to a physical demonstrator in under 12 months, FMV and GKN Aerospace are validating a more agile, lower-cost approach to uncrewed systems development. If the 18-month target for flight capability is met, this programme could serve as a template for future rapid-acquisition aerospace projects within allied nations, prioritizing speed to deployment over traditional, decade-long development cycles.
Sources: GKN Aerospace
Photo Credit: GKN Aerospace
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