- Perth and Oregon-based Orbital UAV (ASX:OEC) is set to send drone engines off to a partner in the US
- NYSE-listed Textron Systems is working with US Defence on a program to improve drone tech
- The US military wants quieter, faster and more AI-capable drones that can take off vertically
- OEC shares last traded at 10 cents
Orbital UAV (ASX:OEC) has extended a key relationship with NYSE-listed Textron Systems.
Orbital, based in Perth and with offices in Oregon, USA, provides Textron with small engines for use in military-grade small drones.
For the first time, Textron has now hit the Perth office with a request for engines under a $2.1 million contract.
US Defence linked program
Engines will be supplied for inclusion into Textron’s ongoing ‘Aerosonde’ program.
That program intertwines with US Defence’s Future Tactical Uncrewed Aircraft System (FTUAS) program.
Under that program, the US military is looking for ways to make its drones quieter, faster, more AI-capable, and – what it appears most interested in – making drones that can take off vertically.
Orbital and Textron have been working together since 2021, with today’s order for the engines, in effect, the ultimate culmination of the development relationship between both companies.
What are Orbital’s engines?
Orbital engines use heavy fuel injectors and can be run on gasoline or major types of jet fuel, according to the company’s website.
Jet fuel the engines can handle is both military and commercial aviation grade. Jet fuels typically include elements that prevent freezing at high altitudes, as well as other additives that ensure fuel lines run smoothly.
Orbital’s in-house tech is designed to ensure that the drones are quiet, and, harder to find on heat radar – satisfying desired outcomes.
“This is a major milestone in the engine development program and our relationships with Lycoming Engines and Textron Systems,” OEC Interim CEO Andrew Mills said.
“This has supported Textron’s system capabilities and validated the FTUAS solution presented in this UAS.”
OEC shares last traded at 10 cents.