Advancing Tactical UAV Helicopter Solutions
Alpha Unmanned Systems (AUS), founded in 2014 and headquartered in Madrid, Spain, specializes in the design and manufacture of small tactical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) helicopters. The company focuses on delivering fuel-powered rotary-wing UAVs tailored for both defense and civilian applications, emphasizing versatility, endurance, and payload capacity.
Company Overview
AUS was established by Juan Luque, Álvaro Escarpenter, and Eric Freeman, bringing together expertise in aeronautical engineering, electronics, and UAV operations. The company’s mission is to provide reliable and efficient UAV solutions capable of operating in diverse environments. With a team of 23 professionals, AUS has developed a reputation for producing UAVs that offer extended flight times and substantial payload capacities, distinguishing them in the tactical UAV market.
Core Products
Alpha 800
The Alpha 800 is a gasoline-powered UAV helicopter designed for various missions, including surveillance, inspection, and search and rescue operations. It boasts a flight endurance of up to 2.5 hours and can carry a payload of 3 kg, making it suitable for tasks requiring extended flight times and reliable performance.
Alpha 900
The Alpha 900 is AUS’s latest UAV helicopter, engineered to meet the demanding requirements of maritime and naval operations. With a maximum takeoff weight of less than 25 kg, it is STANAG 4738-compliant, allowing for seamless integration into NATO operations. The Alpha 900 features robust weatherproofing and is capable of taking off and landing on moving vessels, making it ideal for coast guard and naval missions.
Alpha Target Systems
In 2024, AUS introduced the Alpha Target Systems, including the A900T and A800T models. These UAVs are designed to simulate enemy aircraft and other threats, providing realistic training scenarios for defense exercises. They can be equipped with various payloads to accommodate different military target and calibration requirements.
Global Expansion and Partnerships
India
Recognizing the growing demand for UAV technologies in India, AUS formed strategic partnerships with Ukay Metal Industry and Pentagone Performance Industry in 2025. This collaboration aims to introduce the Alpha 800 and Alpha 900 UAVs to the Indian market, addressing needs in both civil and defense sectors. The partnership focuses on local manufacturing, distribution, and support, aligning with India’s emphasis on indigenous defense capabilities.
Indonesia and Southeast Asia
In 2023, AUS expanded its presence in Southeast Asia by partnering with PT Indadi Venyro in Indonesia. This agreement involves licensed manufacturing, distribution, and support of Alpha UAVs throughout Indonesia and the broader Southeast Asian region. The collaboration enhances AUS’s ability to provide localized solutions and support to clients in these markets.
United States
AUS’s Alpha 900 UAVs have been procured by the U.S. Department of Defense through a contract with Rapid Expeditionary Concepts. The UAVs are integrated with specialized electro-optical sensors for counter-unmanned aerial system (CUAS) operations, demonstrating AUS’s capability to meet stringent defense requirements.
Collaborations and Technological Advancements
Telefónica Partnership
AUS has entered into a collaboration with Telefónica to explore the integration of 5G communications with unmanned helicopter systems. This partnership aims to enhance UAV capabilities in defense and security applications by leveraging advanced communication technologies.
Sightec Integration
To improve object detection and tracking capabilities, AUS has partnered with Sightec, incorporating their vision-based navigation systems into Alpha UAVs. This integration reduces the man-hours required for detecting moving objects, enhancing the efficiency of surveillance missions.
Funding and Investment
In April 2023, AUS closed its first seed round of external investment capital. The funding is allocated to enhance product development and expand sales and marketing efforts. Notably, the European Union has supported AUS through multiple grant rounds, including a significant grant of $1.59 million in May 2019.
Operational Deployments
Bulgarian Border Protection
AUS’s Alpha 900 UAVs have been deployed by the Bulgarian Border Police to enhance border surveillance and maritime space monitoring. The UAVs’ capabilities in tracking suspicious objects and conducting surveys contribute to national security efforts.
REPMUS Maritime Robotics Exercise
In 2024, AUS participated in the REPMUS maritime robotics exercise, showcasing the Alpha 900’s capabilities in a multinational defense context. The exercise provided an opportunity to demonstrate the UAV’s performance in complex maritime operations.
Conclusion
Alpha Unmanned Systems has established itself as a key player in the UAV industry, offering specialized helicopter UAVs that cater to both defense and civilian applications. Through strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and a focus on meeting diverse operational requirements, AUS continues to expand its global footprint and contribute to advancements in unmanned aerial systems.
