Tekever wins contract to supply AR5 drones, training to Portuguese Air Force

Published Aug 11, 01:34 PM UTC

Tekever has secured a contract to supply its AR5 uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) to the Portuguese Air Force, with delivery and initial operational capability scheduled for September. The contract includes AR5 systems, a ground control station, the ATLAS mission system, and a two-phase training program. The AR5 is a medium-altitude, long-endurance drone capable of 20-hour flights with a 50kg payload, featuring satellite communications and short-runway launch capability. The Portuguese Air Force will use the AR5 for maritime surveillance, Exclusive Economic Zone monitoring, coastal security, environmental protection, and firefighting support with the Special Rural Firefighting Unit. Tekever's drones have previously been used by the UK Home Office, European Maritime Safety Agency, and in Ukraine for surveillance. The UK has also selected the AR5 to replace its Watchkeeper UAS fleet.