Airbus Helicopters and the Spanish Navy have completed a major maritime defense exercise in Spain that combined helicopters, drones, and naval systems in a single operation.
The exercise involved the offshore patrol vessel Rayo, an H135 helicopter, and two uncrewed aerial systems operating together.
The trial showed how crewed and uncrewed platforms can work together in real time during surveillance and tracking missions. The exercise also highlighted Europe’s growing focus on advanced multi-domain military operations.
Airbus HTeaming Activated
The operation used Airbus’ HTeaming system to connect all platforms during flight. The system enabled the helicopter crew to control drones while receiving live video and tactical data simultaneously. This helped the ship gain information from areas beyond the reach of its onboard radar and sensors.
The exercise included the Airbus Flexrotor drone and Alpha Unmanned Systems’ A900 uncrewed aircraft. Both drones successfully took off and landed from the moving naval vessel during the trials. This demonstrated that the systems can operate in difficult maritime conditions where stability and timing are crucial.
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H135 Helicopter Controlled Drones
Airbus H135 played a central role during the exercise. A pilot inside the helicopter controlled both drones using a tablet connected to Airbus’ HTeaming solution. The company said the system demonstrated its flexibility by integrating the A900 drone without major changes.
The mission simulated a fast-moving boat chase during an ISTAR operation. ISTAR stands for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance, which combines tracking and information gathering during military missions. The drones followed the target while sending live images to both the helicopter and the naval vessel.
The data was integrated into the NAIAD tactical system developed by Navantia. This system enables aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles to operate together within the Spanish Navy’s SCOMBA combat management network. The setup improves coordination between different military platforms during complex operations.
Airbus said the exercise reflects a wider effort to improve crewed-uncrewed teaming technologies for modern defense missions.
These systems are designed to reduce risks for human crews while expanding surveillance coverage during naval and air operations. Similar technologies are becoming increasingly important for NATO and European defense programs focused on maritime security.
Fernando Lombo, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Spain, said cooperation between Airbus, Navantia, Alpha Unmanned Systems, and the Spanish Navy helped demonstrate Europe’s growing defense capabilities.
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He said the project showed how European companies can jointly develop advanced military technologies. The exercise also supported Europe’s efforts to strengthen sovereign defense systems and reduce dependence on external suppliers.
Airbus also used its Helicopter Integrated Tactical System during the trial. This tactical console processed drone information and connected it with the ship’s combat management network. The integration ensured that live intelligence could be shared quickly between all participating platforms.
The companies involved are now looking toward future developments in drone swarm operations and wider integration between air, sea, and land systems. These efforts aim to create faster and more connected military networks for modern operations.
