The Aero2 is an uncrewed, hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft developed by Swiss company Dufour Aerospace.
Designed to bridge the gap between helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, the Aero2 offers a versatile solution for critical cargo transport, remote sensing, and public safety missions. Its tilt-wing configuration enables efficient cruise performance while maintaining VTOL capabilities.
Design & Configuration
The Aero2 features a tilt-wing design, allowing its wings to rotate for vertical takeoff and landing, then transition to horizontal flight for efficient cruising. This configuration combines the operational flexibility of helicopters with the energy efficiency of fixed-wing aircraft. The aircraft’s structure includes an H-tail and a larger fuselage to accommodate various payloads. Its modular nose cone can be reconfigured within 10 minutes to suit different mission requirements, such as cargo transport or sensor integration .
Propulsion & Power Systems
The Aero2 employs a hybrid-electric propulsion system developed in collaboration with Suter Industries. This system consists of a two-cylinder boxer engine driving a generator that powers four electric main motors and one electric tail motor. During takeoff and landing, the aircraft operates on battery power for quiet and efficient performance. In forward flight, the hybrid system generates electricity to power the motors and recharge the batteries, eliminating the need for ground-based charging and enabling back-to-back missions.
Performance & Capabilities
The Aero2 is capable of transporting a 40kg (88 lbs) payload over a distance of 400 km (216 nautical miles) with a flight time of up to 3 hours. For missions requiring extended range, the payload can be adjusted to 10 kg (22 lbs), allowing for a flight time of 10.5 hours and a range of 1,390km (750 nautical miles) . The aircraft’s cruise speed is approximately 150 km/h (81 knots), and it can operate in various environments, including unprepared terrains.
Safety & Redundancy
Safety is a paramount consideration in the Aero2’s design. The aircraft features a triple-redundant flight control system, redundant motors, control surfaces, and flight-critical systems. These redundancies enable the Aero2 to continue safe flight operations in the event of component failures. Additionally, an optional airframe parachute provides an extra layer of safety for emergency situations .
Applications
The Aero2’s versatility makes it suitable for a range of applications:
- Critical Cargo Transport: Efficiently delivers medical supplies, vaccines, and other essential goods to remote or hard-to-reach areas.
- Remote Sensing and Data Gathering: Supports high-resolution remote sensing missions using various sensors, including LiDAR, infrared, and multispectral cameras.
- Public Safety and Search and Rescue: Assists in search and rescue operations, wildfire monitoring, and border surveillance, providing extended endurance and payload capacity for complex missions.
