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