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Uzbekistan Becomes First in Central Asia to Order Airbus Flexrotor Drones

Uzbekistan Becomes First in Central Asia to Order Airbus Flexrotor Drones
Uzbekistan has taken a significant step in modernizing its defense capabilities by signing a contract with Airbus Helicopters to acquire the Flexrotor unmanned aerial systems. This procurement marks Uzbekistan as the first country in Central Asia to order these advanced drones, according to a report by Infodefensa. The agreement, finalized during the Dubai Airshow on November 19, includes an unspecified number of Flexrotor systems to be delivered alongside manned helicopters, as confirmed by an official Airbus press release.
Advanced Capabilities of the Flexrotor System
The Flexrotor drone is designed primarily for intelligence, surveillance, targeting, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. It boasts vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities, a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 25 kilograms, and an endurance ranging from 12 to 14 hours under standard configurations. Engineered for expeditionary operations, the system requires minimal infrastructure and can be seamlessly integrated into both crewed and uncrewed control frameworks.
Uzbekistan intends to deploy these drones in crewed-uncrewed teaming scenarios, particularly in coordination with helicopters, to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency. This strategic initiative is expected to not only modernize the country’s defense apparatus but also set a precedent for other Central Asian nations contemplating similar technological advancements.
Strategic Implications and Regional Impact
While the adoption of the Flexrotor system positions Uzbekistan at the forefront of unmanned aerial technology in the region, it also presents potential challenges. Integrating these drones with existing military rotorcraft may necessitate significant technical adjustments, and logistical complexities could arise during deployment. Nonetheless, Uzbekistan’s pioneering move is likely to draw considerable attention from neighboring defense sectors, potentially stimulating increased interest in VTOL drone technology across Central Asia.
Industry analysts suggest that competitor manufacturers may respond with intensified marketing efforts or accelerated innovation to maintain their market share. Uzbekistan’s procurement could influence broader defense acquisition trends in the region, as militaries observe the operational effectiveness and integration of these unmanned systems.
In a related development, Airbus recently unveiled the MQ-72C Lakota Connector, a new multi-purpose unmanned helicopter, underscoring the company’s commitment to expanding its unmanned aerial vehicle portfolio. With this latest acquisition, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a leader in the adoption of unmanned aerial systems in Central Asia, potentially shaping the future defense landscape of the region.

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