Europe is studying a new hybrid drone concept after the European Defence Agency tasked Survey Copter with developing a multi-mission unmanned aircraft design. Based on Airbus’ Capa-X UAS architecture, the proposed system could perform a wide range of tasks including intelligence gathering, electronic warfare support, cargo delivery, and automated in-flight refueling. The effort falls under the Multi-Mission Unmanned Aircraft System program and will continue for four years with funding of about 1.1 million euros, focusing on defining operational capabilities and potential applications for European defense forces.
