The French Aeronautical Maintenance Directorate (DMAé) has placed an additional order with Airbus Helicopters for four U050 Capa-X uncrewed aerial system (UAS) packages following the successful evaluation of an initial system acquired at the end of 2025. The order covers four systems, with each system comprising two U050 Capa-X drones. Two systems will be supplied to the French Navy and two to the French Army as part of the Light Tactical Drone System (SDTL) evaluation programme. Deliveries are scheduled for 2027.
The additional order follows land and sea evaluation campaigns conducted with French forces during 2025 and early 2026. During the evaluations, the U050 Capa-X met the requirements of the SDTL programme, demonstrating its endurance, payload capacity and operational range.
The system also demonstrated a small logistical footprint, with the complete setup able to fit onto two pickup trucks. During the evaluation campaign, the drone demonstrated seven hours of endurance, dual-payload capability and an operational range of 100 kilometres.
“We are honoured that the DMAé has selected our U050 Capa-X drone to equip the French Navy and Army. This is a testament to their trust and a decisive milestone for the programme, which officially enters its operational phase,” said Victor Gerin-Roze, Head of Uncrewed Aerial Systems at Airbus Helicopters.
The U050 Capa-X weighs 120 kg and can operate up to 100 km from its ground station through a direct data link. The system has an endurance of up to 10 hours and can carry a maximum payload of 20 kg. Its modular design allows multiple payloads to be carried simultaneously and enables the system to be configured for different missions.
In its initial configuration, the U050 Capa-X is fitted with an optronic pod for imagery intelligence (IMINT). The system is designed to collect and support the exploitation of imagery for surveillance, reconnaissance and operational analysis. It also incorporates a signals intelligence (SIGINT) capability.
Airbus Helicopters said the baseline architecture of the U050 Capa-X is designed to accommodate additional capabilities as operational requirements evolve. The modular approach allows the system’s design and mission equipment to be adapted over time. Mr Gerin-Roze said the initial version of the U050 Capa-X was designed to evolve in both its configuration and mission scope. He said the system’s modularity would allow capabilities to be expanded as the requirements of the armed forces change.
The DMAé is a joint-service organisation reporting to the Chief of the Defence Staff. It is responsible for the performance and through-life support of aircraft and aeronautical equipment used by the French armed forces. Its responsibilities include maintaining aircraft and equipment availability while controlling support costs.
