Airbus Helicopters partners with Quantum Systems for drone defense tech

Airbus Helicopters and Quantum Systems signed a cooperation agreement to integrate counter-unmanned aerial system interceptors onto Airbus military helicopters, starting with the H145M model. The partnership was announced at the ILA Berlin 2026 aerospace exhibition.

The collaboration aims to enhance military helicopters' capabilities against unmanned aerial threats. The companies will explore integrating Quantum Systems' counter-UAS technology with Airbus' military helicopter platforms.

"This agreement with Quantum Systems marks a crucial step forward in further expanding the operational spectrum of our military helicopters, ensuring that crews can effectively control the airspace against uncrewed threats," said Stefan Thomé, Executive Vice President Programmes at Airbus Helicopters.

Martin Karkour, Chief Revenue Officer at Quantum Systems, stated that the cooperation demonstrates how Europe's defense industry can combine strengths to address operational challenges. "Current developments show that aerial systems need answers to drone threats," Karkour said.

At the Berlin exhibition, Airbus Helicopters displayed the U145, an unmanned version of the H145 helicopter family. The U145 mockup featured Quantum Systems' counter-UAS solution on Airbus' static display.

The H145M serves as the initial platform for the joint initiative due to its open system architecture. Airbus Group trades on the over-the-counter market under ticker OTC: EADSY.

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