Delair Expands DT46 Drone System Capabilities at 2025 Paris Air Show
Key Ideas
- Delair unveiled new configurations of its DT46 drone system at the 2025 Paris Air Show, showcasing a hybrid-electric version developed in collaboration with Ascendance and a hydrogen-powered variant linked to European Commission initiatives.
- The hybrid-electric DT46 DOC HR variant enhances long-range observation missions with stealth capabilities and increased endurance, meeting operational needs of the French Defence Procurement Agency and potentially aiding maritime surveillance missions.
- The DT46 has been undergoing evaluations by the French Army for rapid deployment, complementing artillery regiments with dual propulsion configurations, NATO-compliant transmission capabilities, and interoperability with fire control systems.
- French Gendarmerie Nationale and civilian organizations like ECOGENE-21 have also selected the DT46 for surveillance and logistical missions, reflecting the drone's versatility in defense, security, medical logistics, and civilian applications.
Delair introduced two new configurations of its DT46 tactical drone system at the 2025 International Paris Air Show, expanding its capabilities in propulsion and endurance. The first variant is a rechargeable hybrid-electric version developed under the DOC HR project in collaboration with Ascendance, specializing in hybrid propulsion. The second is a hydrogen-powered variant associated with European Commission initiatives. These developments aim to enhance the DT46’s ability to conduct long-range observation missions in both civilian and military settings. The hybrid variant, named DT46 DOC HR, allows the drone to alternate between low-speed electric flight for stealth and faster phases when required. Additionally, the hydrogen-powered variant addresses operational needs of the French Defence Procurement Agency's missile test center, boosting endurance from 3.5 to over 5.5 hours.
The DT46 has been under evaluation by the French Army for rapid deployment, supporting artillery regiments with dual propulsion configurations for long endurance flights. It features NATO-compliant video transmission capabilities and interoperability with fire control systems. The drone's selection by the French Gendarmerie Nationale and civilian organizations like ECOGENE-21 highlights its diverse applications in surveillance, medical logistics, and reconnaissance missions.
Moreover, the DT46 has been used in civilian applications, with successful trials in remote medication delivery and biological sample collection. Delair's focus on dual-use UAV capabilities aligns with promoting innovation for both defense and civilian tasks. The introduction of the DT46 LiDAR variant further enhances its capabilities for long-distance missions, cementing its position as a versatile drone system.
Topics
Aviation
Innovation
Aerospace
Drone Technology
European Commission
Military
Surveillance
Defense Procurement
French Army
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