CybAero

Swedish aerospace company CybAero has won an order to supply unmanned helicopters to the Chinese AVIC group through an eight-year framework agreement.

The order is dependent on an export permit being issued by the Swedish Agency for Non-Proliferation and Export Controls (ISP). However, CybAero noted that the gaining the approval would not be a problem.

Under the framework agreement, AVIC will purchase at least 20 helicopter systems during the first three years and at least an additional 50 systems during the following five years.

Each system includes helicopters, ground stations and data links.

According to CybAero, its unmanned helicopters are easy to maintain, robust and cost-effective, have a range of 20 miles and a flying time of up to six hours.

Estimated to be worth Skr700m ($103.26m) to Skr800m ($118.01m), the deal also includes training and support.

CybAero CEO Mikael Hult said: "Our goal is to become the global market leader with at least 30% of the global market."

CybAero plans to establish a joint company with AVIC in order to gain access to its volumes and production expertise.

The company may take up some production locally in China for the Asiatic market.

Through the joint company, CybAero expects to achieve economies of scale, which will result in the further streamlining of operations and the potential to operate closer to the local Asiatic market.

AVIC will entirely focus on civil and commercial markets, such as customs and coastguard services, the energy sector, agriculture, mapping and rescue services.

AVIC will make the payments on an ongoing basis as deliveries take place.

Image: Under the framework agreement, AVIC will purchase at least 20 helicopter systems during the first three years and at least an additional 50 systems in the following five years. Photo: courtesy of CybAero.

Defence Technology