13. January 2026
Uzbekistan Welcomes Cutting Edge Tech With Airbus Helicopters Flexrotor Systems

Airbus Helicopters Flexrotor Systems Selected for Uzbekistan Military & Dual Use Operations
The Uzbekistan state unitary enterprise Uztechtrade has awarded Airbus Helicopters a contract to deliver an undisclosed number of Flexrotor uncrewed systems. This agreement marks a pivotal moment in Uzbekistan’s journey towards adopting cutting-edge technology, as the nation becomes the first customer for the Flexrotor in Central Asia.
The Flexrotor, designed primarily for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, is capable of remaining airborne for more than 12-14 hours in a typical operational configuration. This innovative system has a minimal footprint requirement, allowing it to operate from both land and sea environments with an area as small as 3.7 by 3.7 m (12 by 12 ft.). The aircraft can be configured with various payloads, including electro-optical systems and advanced sensors, to meet specific mission requirements.
Uztechtrade has become the first customer for the Flexrotor in Central Asia, underscoring Uzbekistan’s commitment to adopting innovative technology. Airbus Helicopters is reinforcing its position as a leading provider of innovative uncrewed platforms with this contract.
The Flexrotor’s versatility and capabilities have garnered attention from various military and dual-use customers worldwide. Its ability to operate in diverse environments and provide real-time intelligence makes it an invaluable asset for military and civilian organizations alike. Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President, head of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, expressed excitement about the partnership with Uztechtrade: “Uzbekistan is a long-standing partner, and we’re proud that Uztechtrade has chosen the Flexrotor to advance its uncrewed capabilities.”
The contract highlights a growing interest in modernizing mission capabilities through innovative uncrewed platforms. The integration of these Airbus systems underscores the company’s ability to provide tailored solutions for specific customer needs.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the use of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) across various industries, including military, law enforcement, and surveillance. The Flexrotor is designed to meet the evolving needs of these applications, providing advanced capabilities for ISTAR missions.
The Uzbekistan government has been actively investing in the development of its defense sector, with a focus on modernizing its military capabilities through innovative technologies. The adoption of the Flexrotor system is an integral part of this effort, as it provides the country with a cutting-edge solution for enhanced situational awareness and mission effectiveness.
Uztechtrade oversees the importation of military and dual equipment for Uzbekistan, playing a crucial role in promoting the nation’s defense modernization efforts. The selection of the Flexrotor system underscores Uztechtrade’s commitment to providing innovative technologies that support the country’s national security objectives.
Airbus Helicopters continues to expand its portfolio of uncrewed platforms, committed to delivering tailored solutions for specific customer needs. This partnership marks an important step towards reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in the development and deployment of innovative Uncrewed Aerial Systems.
The integration of the Flexrotor system with existing crewed helicopters will enhance situational awareness and mission effectiveness, providing Uzbekistan with a comprehensive solution for advanced Crewed-Uncrewed Teaming scenarios. This collaboration highlights the growing importance of uncrewed technologies in modern military operations, where flexibility, adaptability, and real-time intelligence are essential.
The contract reiterates Airbus Helicopters’ commitment to providing innovative solutions that support national security objectives. As the global defense landscape continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see further adoption of uncrewed platforms like the Flexrotor, as military organizations seek to enhance their operational capabilities through cutting-edge technologies.
The selection of the Flexrotor system by Uztechtrade marks a significant milestone in Uzbekistan’s journey towards adopting innovative technology. The Flexrotor’s advanced capabilities and versatility make it an attractive solution for expeditionary use, providing real-time intelligence and enhanced situational awareness. As Uzbekistan continues to modernize its military capabilities through innovative technologies, the partnership with Airbus Helicopters is set to play a pivotal role in supporting the nation’s national security objectives.