Washington D.C. – BAE Systems and SURVICE Engineering have formalized a collaborative agreement to accelerate the development of uncrewed air systems (UAS) technologies, building on a partnership initially established in 2015 and expanded following BAE Systems’ acquisition of Malloy Aeronautics in 2024. The framework agreement, announced , signals a deepening commitment to integrating unmanned platforms into a wider range of military applications, from logistical support to potential strike capabilities.
The partnership’s foundation lies in the T-150, an all-electric uncrewed logistics aircraft developed by Malloy Aeronautics and currently fielded by the U.S. Marine Corps as the TRV-150. SURVICE Engineering provides support for the T-150, delivering the system to U.S. Armed Forces customers. The new agreement expands this collaboration beyond purely logistical roles, aiming to explore opportunities across a broader portfolio of small and tactical UAS, according to a joint statement released by the companies.
“We look forward to working together with SURVICE Engineering to develop this capability for today’s rapidly evolving battlespace,” said Anthony Gregory, Business Development Director at BAE Systems FalconWorks. This statement underscores the increasing importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare, where adaptability and responsiveness are paramount.
The timing of this agreement is significant. Military interest in UAS is growing rapidly, driven by the potential to reduce risk to personnel and extend operational reach. Uncrewed aircraft are increasingly seen as vital for missions ranging from routine supply deliveries to more complex tasks like reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and, as recent trials demonstrate, even precision strikes.
Greg Thompson, President of SURVICE Engineering, highlighted the operational experience gained through the deployment of Malloy-developed platforms with U.S. Military units. “Partnering with Malloy, our successes include fielding the TRV-150 to the USMC and US Army and demonstrating use cases beyond logistics, including mine clearing, obscurant deployment, and weaponisation,” Thompson stated. This suggests a deliberate move towards diversifying the capabilities of these platforms, moving beyond simple transport to encompass a wider spectrum of battlefield roles.
Recent trials conducted by BAE Systems have demonstrated the potential of multi-rotor UAS to deliver precision munitions, successfully destroying both air and ground targets in the United States. This marks a significant step towards developing a low-cost strike capability for frontline troops, potentially altering the dynamics of close-air support and counter-UAS operations. The ability to launch precision munitions from a relatively inexpensive and easily deployable platform could provide a tactical advantage in contested environments.
FalconWorks, BAE Systems’ advanced research and development arm, plays a crucial role in driving innovation and experimentation across aerospace and defense technologies. The organization focuses on rapidly prototyping and testing new concepts, with the goal of transitioning them into operational capabilities through partnerships with industry and military users. This collaborative approach is central to BAE Systems’ strategy for maintaining a technological edge in the rapidly evolving defense landscape.
SURVICE Engineering, meanwhile, brings specialized expertise in engineering and technical support services to U.S. Defense programs. The company’s focus on developing and integrating specialized combat equipment and autonomous systems makes it a valuable partner for BAE Systems, particularly in the context of integrating UAS into existing military infrastructure.
The expansion of this partnership reflects a broader trend within the defense industry towards greater reliance on uncrewed systems. The potential benefits are numerous: reduced personnel costs, increased operational flexibility, and the ability to operate in environments too dangerous for manned aircraft. However, the integration of UAS also presents challenges, including the need for robust command and control systems, effective counter-UAS defenses, and careful consideration of ethical and legal implications.
The agreement between BAE Systems and SURVICE Engineering is not merely a commercial venture. it represents a strategic investment in the future of military technology. As uncrewed air systems take on an increasingly prominent role in defense operations, collaborations like this will be essential for ensuring that armed forces have access to the cutting-edge capabilities they need to maintain a competitive advantage. The focus on both logistical and tactical applications suggests a comprehensive approach to harnessing the potential of UAS, positioning both companies at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field.
BAE Systems indicated that this partnership is part of a larger strategy to accelerate the development of uncrewed air capabilities to meet evolving national and international defense requirements. This suggests a long-term commitment to the UAS market and a recognition of its growing importance in the global security landscape.
