News

Augsburg, Germany – Wednesday, 26 February 2025 – QinetiQ Germany and HENSOLDT have strengthened their collaboration in the field of uncrewed aerial vehicles and systems, with ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH serving as the prime contractor.

This partnership builds on years of successful cooperation between, QinetiQ and HENSOLDT in Germany and Europe particularly in airborne radar systems using PC-12 test aircraft and the supply of reconnaissance technology for QinetiQ's fleet.

This strengthened alliance supports QinetiQ's Global Threat Representation strategy, reinforcing its reputation as a global service provider for military exercises, from operational analysis to implementing new capabilities.

The expanded partnership focuses on three key areas including:

• Capability enhancement.
• Military uncrewed aerial vehicles of category IIa.
• Training and certified testing.
  
  

With key locations in Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein, QinetiQ and HENSOLDT are well-positioned to support the German Armed Forces and other security authorities in operating uncrewed systems.

HENSOLDT has been integrated as a certified body by the German Armed Forces Aviation Office for military uncrewed aerial vehicles of category IIa. This category encompasses drones used for flight target presentation, prototypes and system demonstrators.

HENSOLDT will also act as a recognised training and certified testing centre for remote pilots of civil uncrewed aircraft in QinetiQ's category 2c, which includes drones that do not require prior approval. As a multi-certified body, HENSOLDT can provide comprehensive system support within this strengthened partnership.

Matthias Grögor, Head of Strategic Business Development at QinetiQ in Germany, said: "Through our partnership with HENSOLDT, we demonstrate a proven collaboration with the German Armed Forces and other security authorities, backed by years of successful work, particularly with the German Air Force,” Matthias said.

“Together, we aim to expand our services in uncrewed systems - from development and certification to education and training, around our Bavarian location in Augsburg, helping to establish Bavaria as a leading hub for drone technology."

Thorsten Heil, Head of Flight Operations at HENSOLDT in Germany, added: "As a reliable technology and innovation partner and an approved aviation company for both uncrewed and crewed aircraft, we are committed to developing specific, customer-oriented, and market-driven solutions that maintain our armed forces' defence capabilities and enhance public safety. The intensified cooperation with QinetiQ is a critical step towards improving education and training for uncrewed aircraft and systems in Germany, contributing to the sustainable strengthening of our security."

This partnership marks a major step forward in uncrewed aviation and defense technology, supporting both national security and industry innovation.

ENDS

About QinetiQ

QinetiQ is an integrated global defence and security company focused on mission-led innovation. We employ more than 8,500 highly-skilled people, committed to creating new ways of protecting what matters most; testing technologies, systems, and processes to make sure they meet operational needs; and enabling customers to deploy new and enhanced capabilities with the assurance they will deliver the performance required. Visit our website www.QinetiQ.com. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @QinetiQ.  Visit our blog www.QinetiQ-blogs.com.

Press Contact
Matt Peake: Mpeake@qinetiq.com.au
QinetiQ Press Office: +44 1252 393500 / PressOffice@qinetiq.com

About HENSOLDT

HENSOLDT is a prominent European defence company based in Taufkirchen, near Munich, specialising in sensor solutions for defence and security. As a system integrator, it provides platform-independent, networked sensors and leads in developing defence electronics and optronics. In 2023, HENSOLDT reported a turnover of 1.85 billion euros and, following the acquisition of the ESG Group, employs around 8,000 people. The company is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.
www.hensoldt.net

Press Contact
Ulrich-Joachim Müller: ulrich-joachim.mueller@hensoldt.net
+49 89 92161 2850