Significant Advancement in the European MALE RPAS Programme
Following extensive negotiations between Airbus Defence and Space and OCCAR, the European Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (MALE RPAS) Programme has made a substantial leap forward with the successful conclusion of the Stage 2 Contract negotiations.
This pivotal milestone has been achieved through the steadfast commitment and diligence of all parties involved.
During the 7th Programme Board meeting on 19 November 2020, the four Programme Participating States (PPS) verified that all essential contract conditions, pricing, and performance metrics were met, paving the way for the upcoming national staffing processes.
Over the past four years, the MALE RPAS Programme has celebrated numerous significant accomplishments. A Definition Study commenced in 2016 to align the common requirements of Germany, France, Italy, and Spain and successfully concluded in 2018 with a favorable System Preliminary Design Review (SPDR).
The subsequent two years focused on refining and negotiating the industry’s proposals through extensive discussions, ensuring the contract meets the expectations of the PPS regarding performance, cost-effectiveness, and overall value. This endeavor culminated in the submission of the final Best and Final Offer (BAFO) for the Stage 2 Contract from Airbus Defence and Space GmbH, alongside its major subcontractors, including Leonardo, Dassault Aviation, and Airbus Defence and Space SAU.
Received on 18 November 2020, this comprehensive offer includes the development, production, and five years of initial in-service support for 20 systems, encompassing a contract duration of just over 13 years. With a contract signature anticipated in early 2021, the first flight is projected for 2025, with serial item deliveries to PPS aimed for 2028.
The MALE RPAS represents a crucial capability for enhancing international conflict prevention and crisis management across all operational phases, particularly in Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR).
Establishing a European MALE RPAS will promote sovereignty in defense capabilities while strengthening the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB).
This innovative MALE RPAS is envisioned to become a cornerstone of future combat air systems, opening doors for European industries to engage in a comprehensive Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) program designed for seamless integration into civil air traffic and operation within non-segregated airspace.
