HENSOLDT and QinetiQ Germany expand their cooperation
Training for unmanned aerial vehicles and systems in Germany
The sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT and QinetiQ Germany 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 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.
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.
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.
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."
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."
Press contact
Ulrich-Joachim Müller
Our company
HENSOLDT is a leading company in the European defence industry with a global reach. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a system integrator, HENSOLDT offers platform-independent, networked sensors. At the same time, the company is driving forward the development of defence electronics and optronics as a technology leader and investing in new solutions based on software-defined defence.
In addition, the company is expanding its range of offers to include new service models and is extending its portfolio of system solutions. In 2023, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 1.85 billion euros. Following the acquisition of ESG GmbH, the company employs around 8,000 people. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.
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.
Press contact:
Matt Peake: Mpeake@qinetiq.com.au
QinetiQ Press Office: +44 1252 393500 / PressOffice@qinetiq.com
