Airbus VSR700: The Future of Multi-Role Tactical Drones Unveiled at PAS25
At the Paris Air Show 2025 (PAS25), Airbus is drawing global attention with its cutting-edge unmanned aerial system, the VSR700. This rotary-wing tactical drone, now showcased in a new armed configuration, promises to redefine the operational capabilities of modern militaries. Designed as a multi-role platform, the VSR700 can seamlessly integrate into both naval and land-based operations, extending combat reach, enhancing situational awareness, and providing critical support to armed forces.
A Game-Changer for Military Missions
The VSR700 stands out for its versatility. Airbus envisions this drone operating alongside military customers in a variety of missions — from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to anti-submarine warfare, target designation, and now, direct combat support thanks to its new weaponized options.
On the battlefield, the armed VSR700 offers a significant advantage: it allows forces to project combat capabilities beyond the immediate line of engagement, reduce pilot risk in hostile environments, and enable persistent surveillance over critical areas. Its compact size and low logistical footprint make it ideal for deployment from frigates, corvettes, and other naval vessels, as well as from forward operating bases on land.
New Armed Configuration
At PAS25, Airbus revealed that the VSR700 can now carry a variety of weapons systems tailored to mission requirements. These may include:
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Lightweight guided missiles
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Precision-guided munitions
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Machine gun pods or rockets (in development stages)
This new configuration transforms the VSR700 from a passive observer into an active combat participant — capable of neutralizing threats on land or at sea.
VSR700: Key Specifications
The VSR700 is based on the civil Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopter platform, adapted for military use with autonomous flight systems and mission-specific equipment. Here’s a closer look at its technical details:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 6.2 m |
| Rotor Diameter | 7.2 m |
| Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) | 700 kg |
| Payload Capacity | ~100 kg (depending on configuration) |
| Endurance | 8 to 10+ hours (depending on mission load) |
| Range | Up to 200 km line-of-sight (can be extended with satellite comms) |
| Cruise Speed | ~110 knots (200 km/h) |
| Engine Type | Single piston engine (based on Cabri G2) |
| Sensors & Systems | Maritime radar, EO/IR turret, electronic support measures, LIDAR (optional), sonobuoy launcher (for ASW variant) |
| Weapons (new configuration) | Light missiles, guided rockets, modular pods |
Designed for Seamless Integration
A key strength of the VSR700 lies in its modularity and interoperability. It can be easily integrated with existing naval combat management systems, making it a natural complement to manned helicopters and surface ships. The VSR700’s autonomous takeoff and landing system allows it to operate safely from confined spaces such as ship decks, helipads, or unprepared terrain.
Moreover, its low radar signature and quiet piston engine improve survivability during covert missions, enhancing its value in both peacetime surveillance and high-intensity conflict scenarios.
The Future of the VSR700
Airbus continues to develop and test the VSR700 with military customers, including the French Navy, as part of programs like the Système de Drone Aérien de la Marine (SDAM). The new armed configuration indicates Airbus' ambition to meet growing demand for combat-capable unmanned systems that can operate in complex, multi-domain environments.
As militaries worldwide adapt to evolving threats, the VSR700 emerges as a critical tool, capable of bridging the gap between traditional manned platforms and fully autonomous strike systems. At PAS25, Airbus has made it clear: the future of tactical drones is not just about seeing — it's about striking when needed.
