The Eurodrone programme has successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR). Led by Airbus Defence and Space as the prime contractor, this significant milestone in the programme was achieved with OCCAR and representatives from the four customer nations (France, Germany, Italy, and Spain), along with the three major sub-contractors (MSCs) – Airbus Defence and Space Spain, Dassault Aviation, and Leonardo.
The PDR confirms that the initial design of the aircraft has progressed consistently, paving the way for the detailed design phase. It is the result of various technical assessments and evaluations, including wind tunnel testing to validate the aerodynamic configuration of Eurodrone, overall design assessments to ensure operational capability, and the validation of a fully representative digital twin.
From the outset, the Eurodrone programme has benefited from both physical and digital design approaches.
Building on the knowledge already acquired, the Eurodrone programme now advances to the critical design review (CDR), marking the final step in architecture and system design. Equipped with innovative cutting-edge technology and designed to be a cornerstone of future combat air systems, the Eurodrone will provide essential capabilities for international conflict prevention and crisis management. It will ensure operational superiority for nations, particularly in intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions.
