France has ordered the Aliaca VTOL uncrewed aerial system through Airbus Helicopters subsidiary Survey Copter, making the French Navy the first operator of the VTOL configuration. Developed in under 12 months and unveiled in April 2025, the system is scheduled for initial deliveries starting in May 2026. The order builds on previous acquisitions of 34 fixed-wing Aliaca systems since 2022, which the navy uses as “remote binoculars” for maritime surveillance, patrol, and search-and-rescue missions. The VTOL variant expands operational flexibility by removing the need for launch and recovery equipment while retaining compatibility with existing ground control stations.
