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French Navy Qualifies Airbus U010 Aliaca VTOL Drone for Service

French Navy Qualifies Airbus U010 Aliaca VTOL Drone for Service

First seen 3 Nov 2026, 21:13 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •November 3, 2026 at 22:46 UTC
  • •The DGA qualified the Airbus U010 Aliaca VTOL drone for the French Navy.
  • •The VTOL variant simplifies operations from smaller ships by eliminating launch equipment.
  • •A total of 34 Aliaca systems have been ordered, with eight in the new VTOL configuration.

The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) has officially qualified the VTOL version of the Airbus U010 Aliaca drone for service with the French Navy. This qualification follows extensive land and sea trials conducted in May and June 2026. The drone is now cleared to enter service under the Système de Mini-Drones embarqués pour la Marine (SMDM) program, with the first two systems delivered in September 2026. The VTOL variant features four additional propellers for vertical takeoff and landing, eliminating the need for launch and recovery equipment. This allows for easier operation from smaller vessels. The DGA has ordered a total of 34 Aliaca systems, with eight configured as VTOL. The original fixed-wing version has been operational since 2022, supporting various maritime missions. The VTOL variant will enhance the French Navy's capabilities in the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean regions.

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Timeline

2026-05-01
VTOL trials conducted
Extensive land and sea trials for the VTOL variant of the U010 Aliaca drone were conducted with the French Navy.
Aerotime.Aero
2026-09-01
First two VTOL systems delivered
Airbus delivered the first two VTOL U010 Aliaca systems to the French Navy as part of the SMDM program.
Aerotime.Aero
2026-11-03
DGA qualifies U010 Aliaca VTOL drone
The French Armament General Directorate officially qualified the VTOL version of the U010 Aliaca drone for service with the French Navy.
Airbus

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Common questions

What is the U010 Aliaca drone?
The U010 Aliaca is a tactical uncrewed aerial system developed by Airbus, designed for maritime operations.
How does the VTOL variant differ from the original?
The VTOL variant uses additional propellers for vertical takeoff and landing, eliminating the need for catapults and nets.
When will the VTOL systems be operational?
The French Navy plans to begin deploying the VTOL systems aboard BSAMs in late 2026.