Safran and UVAD Technologies are joining forces to power the Falcon, a new-generation supersonic UAV

Safran Power Units and UVAD Technologies Inc. have announced their partnership regarding the propulsion system for the Falcon Supersonic UAV. It will be powered by two turbojet engines provided by Safran Power Units, delivering robustness, reliability, and extended lifespan, far exceeding current industry standards.

Falcon is an innovative, affordable, and reusable supersonic aerial target designed to support the increasingly sophisticated missile defence training required by the armed forces. Its architecture also offers potential for broader high-speed missions beyond simulating modern threats.

Safran Power Units will supply engines enabling the Falcon to reach supersonic speeds at low and medium altitudes, while ensuring rapid deployment and recovery. This level of performance allows for more frequent and cost-effective training sessions for air, naval, and missile defence operators.

David Birkett, UVAD Technologies Inc. CEO, said: "We are particularly pleased to be entering into this partnership with Safran Power Units, a globally recognised expert in the field of high-performance and affordable turbojet engines. Our two companies share a common vision for high-performance, affordable defence systems capable of addressing the challenges of the future, particularly those posed by supersonic threats."

Ghislaine Doukhan, Safran Power Units CEO, said: "We are excited to start this partnership with UVAD to provide the propulsion system for their Falcon drone. The choice of our engines will make a significant contribution to the Falcon's capabilities in terms of supersonic flight, robustness, and cost-effectiveness."

This strategic collaboration combines UVAD's innovation in aerospace and defence with Safran Power Units' global excellence in propulsion technology. Beyond today's training needs, this partnership anticipates tomorrow's challenges by offering armed forces an adaptable solution. With its modular architecture and autonomous flight system, Falcon embodies the shared ambition of Safran Power Units and UVAD to make advanced defence technology more accessible and adaptable to evolving operational environments. This innovative system will notably allow a single operator to oversee multiple drones simultaneously, optimising the efficiency and flexibility of training scenarios.

Following a successful ground testing campaign in 2026, the programme will enter its flight test phase in 2027, an essential milestone towards the operational deployment of the Falcon Supersonic UAV.