EDGE Secures Major HT-100 Drone Sale Post ANAVIA Stake
The United Arab Emirates’ EDGE Group recently confirmed the adoption of multi-role HT-100 drones onto naval vessels for a major export program. The sizable sale comes just over a week after EDGE purchased a 52% stake in the drones’ Swiss manufacturer, ANAVIA.
Expanding Naval Drone Capabilities
EDGE subsidiary Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) will equip customer ships with the VTOL HT-100 systems as part of an undisclosed export contract.
The exact number and configuration details remain private, but the swift deal marks an immediate return on UAE’s investment in the HT-100’s maker.
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HT-100 System Attributes
The electric HT-100 provides navies and coast guards an advanced drone option combining versatility, endurance, and interoperability.
Weighing just 28 kg, the rotorcraft can fly various mission sets for over 6 hours at 120 km/h out to 200 km. It also enables easy integration with larger platforms.
Acquisition to Bolster Capabilities
By taking a majority share in pioneering drone firm ANAVIA, EDGE gains innovative VTOL platforms and technical skills to advance its autonomous portfolio.
The acquisition also unlocks a channel to market the HT-100 internationally by leveraging EDGE’s global business development footprint.
First of Many Sales
Per EDGE CEO Mansour AlMulla, the initial HT-100 naval integration represents only the beginning of expected deals for the drone now that ANAVIA sits under EDGE.
The UAE group aims to become a leader in next-generation autonomous tech by smartly combining acquisitions and cooperative development.
Localized Design and Production
With the knowledge transfer from ANAVIA, EDGE intends to eventually manufacture VTOL systems like the HT-100 within the UAE to boost domestic capabilities.
Localizing design and building of drones will further Abu Dhabi’s economic priorities by creating high-tech jobs.
Future Platform Enhancements
While already packing impressive specifications for its size, ANAVIA and EDGE plan to upgrade the HT-100 with new capabilities over its lifecycle.
These will include increased endurance by integrating hydrogen fuel cells to minimize environmental impact.
By delivering advanced drones like the HT-100 to international customers, EDGE grows its global defense industry footprint while positioning the UAE as an autonomous systems hub.
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