The RACER concept is one option for solving the speed requirement of future rotorcraft that Airbus is now exploring as part of the European Next-Generation Rotorcraft Technologies with Leonardo. (Airbus)

The European Union has formally launched the European Next-Generation Rotorcraft Technologies (ENGRT) programme to develop the technologies for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft for the post-2035 timeframe.

Speaking to Janes and other defence media in Madrid, Matthieu Louvot, executive vice-president, Airbus Helicopters Programmes, said the project first announced earlier in 2022 was launched on 1 December.

The Zephyr HAPS is conducting military missions, although it is not due to enter service until 2024. (Airbus)

The Zephyr high-altitude pseudo-satellite (HAPS) has already flown military missions ahead of its formal entry into service, an Airbus official told Janes and other defence media on 12 December.

Speaking at the annual Airbus Trade Media Briefing (TMB) in Madrid, Samer Halawi, CEO Airbus HAPS Connectivity Solutions, said the company had begun flying contractor-supplied missions of the solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), ahead of it being formally introduced into service in 2024.

The Auto'Mate unmanned aircraft seen in front of an Airbus A330 at the company's Madrid facility, ahead of trials in early 2023. (Janes/Gareth Jennings)

Airbus Defence and Space (DS) is to begin trials of a new capability enabling its A330-200 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) to aerial refuel an unmanned receiver aircraft autonomously, a company official disclosed on 12 December.