This week, Sofia-based Dronamics announced the launch of its Detect and Defend version of the Black Swan, a long range heavy lift unmanned aircraft that has been reconfigured as a detection and defence system. This is the company’s “first defence solution,” according to a release, and they are partnering with HENSOLDT for the built-in Airborne Early Warning (AEW) system to be used on the drone.
At the center of the announcement is the Black Swan, a NATO Class III unmanned system originally designed for cargo and logistics. With a payload of 350 kilograms, a range of 2,500 kilometers, and a time-of-flight of over 24 hours, the aircraft was built to carry heave loads long distances. Dronamics will use this endurance and power to carry defence systems on board.
“The cooperation between HENSOLDT and Dronamics reflects our commitment to provide our customers future-oriented and capable integrated airborne solutions to close capability gaps and to enhance Europe’s safety and security, especially at our Eastern Flank,” said Dietmar Thelen, Head of HENSOLDT’s Multi-Domain Solutions Division.
The system will incorporate HENSOLDT’s Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) system. The result is a single unmanned platform capable of airborne early warning, maritime surveillance, and ground targeting.
Early demonstrations of the joint system are planned for later this year, with operational deployments expected to focus on Europe’s eastern flank, the Mediterranean, and the Atlantic. Those are not random geographies. They are the seams where airspace violations, maritime gray zone tactics, and hybrid threats tend to surface first.
“We are thrilled to have as a launch partner a market leader like HENSOLDT, with the common aim to leverage the most advanced European aerospace technology to keep Europe safe and secure and to enable a prosperous future for all,” said Svilen Rangelov, Co-Founder and CEO of Dronamics.
