Main image: Syos Aerospace has developed the SA200, a diesel or petrol-powered unmanned aircraft system.
New Zealand company Syos Aerospace has signed a $67 million (over €35 million) agreement to supply military drones for use in Ukraine, as reported by New Zealand's The Post.
Syos' main products are "heavy" unmanned helicopters designed for use in remote areas. Its flagship model, the SA200, has a payload capacity of 200 kg and can stay airborne for up to two hours.
According to the company, the device is designed for combat conditions and is equipped with anti-jamming capabilities, data encryption, and multi-level security systems.
Founded in 2021, the company also manufactures:
- A vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). It is equipped with a four-stroke gasoline engine, providing extended flight time with minimal fuel consumption.
- An autonomous ground transport vehicle (6×6) with the option to install tracked systems. It is intended for transporting heavy loads over long distances with high speed and endurance.
- An unmanned marine boat with a payload capacity of 300 kg and a range of up to 650 nautical miles. It can be used for reconnaissance, electronic warfare, signal relay, and cargo transport.
Earlier this month, Syos founder Samuel Wai, commenting on New Zealand's defense budget increase, stated that the army should not purchase drones that have not been tested in the conditions of the war in Ukraine.
Deal Details
The deal was announced by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who mentioned that both Britain and New Zealand are increasing their defense spending.
During a meeting with his British counterpart at Downing Street, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon discussed the deepening defense partnership between the two countries.
In a statement from the UK government, it was noted that, in addition to supporting the training of Ukrainian military personnel, the military planners of the New Zealand Defence Forces are contributing to the development of new ideas and plans for post-war support for Ukraine within the Coalition of the Willing.
Given the rising geopolitical risks after the election of Donald Trump as U.S. president, both the UK and New Zealand have increased their defense spending to 2.5% and 2% of GDP, respectively. It is expected that the increase in defense spending will lead to a threefold increase in Syos’ revenue next year.
