Airbus Helicopters And Naval Group Secure Production Contract
The French defense procurement agency, the DGA, has awarded a production contract to Airbus Helicopters and Naval Group for six VSR700 uncrewed aerial systems. The French Navy is set to begin operating the VSR700 from 2028, with the system configured for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. The VSR700 is based on the Hélicoptères Guimbal Cabri G2 light helicopter and has undergone extensive testing, including sea trials, to validate its performance in maritime conditions. The contract was announced by Airbus on January 16, 2026, and marks the transition of the VSR700 from a demonstrator to a serial product, as reported by AeroTime.