Airbus selects Avio Aero to power Eurodrone

Airbus has selected Avio Aero from Italy to power the Eurodrone medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

The German lead for the project made the announcement on 25 March, saying that the General Electric-owned company will provide an International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)-free engine and propeller solution for the craft, dubbed Catalyst.

“The Catalyst was identified as the best solution based on superior performance, lower developmental risk, better in-service economics, as well as growth potential. In line with customer requirements, Catalyst will offer a truly European solution and will thus contribute to the overall role of Eurodrone as an enabler of strategic autonomy,” Jean-Brice Dumont, head of military aircraft at Airbus Defence and Space, said.