Hydrone Aerospace

About Hydrone Aerospace

Hydrone Aerospace is a project-based initiative focused on advancing drone technology through hydrogen power. One notable collaboration involves Delair, a drone manufacturer, which adapted its DT26 drone to use a hydrogen fuel cell, significantly increasing flight endurance compared to traditional lithium batteries. This specific project, named Hydrone, was financed by the French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) and included the development of a mini hydrogen production station by Ergosup. The goal is to make long-range drone flights, with capabilities comparable to helicopters, commercially and militarily viable.

Another initiative under the "Hydrone" name is a Spanish research project started in September 2021, funded by the Agencia Estatal de Investigación (AEI). This project, a collaboration between institutes at the Universitat Politècnica de València, focuses on hybridizing hydrogen fuel cells with LiPo batteries for fixed-wing drones, aiming to extend flight times beyond two hours. The technology is being developed for 10 kg MTOW drones but is designed to be scalable for larger aircraft. Additionally, Axpo, through its Hydro Digital arm, offers a service package called "hydrone" that provides comprehensive support for drone operations, including regulatory compliance, pilot training, and equipment procurement.