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BAE Systems and Pipistrel set to combine aerospace expertise to address the evolving demands of the military aviation sector

BAE Systems and Pipistrel Aircraft have announced plans to collaborate on the development of solutions for the defence and security market, including the application of electric aircraft.

The collaboration will see BAE Systems applying its expertise in advanced military aircraft together with Pipistrel’s leading position in electrically powered aircraft, to explore the development of light-weight sustainable aircraft.

Electric-powered aircraft are one way that international Air Forces are looking to reduce carbon emissions, not only because they are more environmentally friendly than traditionally powered equivalent aircraft but they also deliver significantly reduced running costs.

Ian Muldowney, Chief Operating Officer, BAE Systems Air, said: “We’re excited to be working with Pipistrel as a well-known leader in the light aircraft space, specialising in electric power. This is an opportunity to help evolve the range of products and services we can offer to our customers who are responding to rapidly changing defence and security priorities.

“While operational capability will always be the priority in defence, we know that solutions that are sympathetic to the environment are becoming increasingly important and our collaboration with Pipistrel presents a fantastic opportunity to leverage our joint expertise.”

Ivo Boscarol, founder and CEO of Pipistrel Aircraft, said: “To address climate change, an unprecedented application of zero-emission technologies is necessary, especially in aviation. We welcome BAE Systems’ initiative to embrace cutting edge and type-certified electric propulsion technologies that are already deployed in our Velis Electro. As we look into the future, we are excited about this collaboration, bringing enhanced potential for an even greater product.”

The collaboration with Pipistrel is the latest commitment to sustainable aviation by BAE Systems, supporting its strategy to accelerate sustainable technology development through increased investment in research and development, as well as working with industry partners, small and medium-sized enterprises and academia.

The drive to develop sustainable products and solutions to meet evolving customer requirements is a key focus for BAE Systems, including areas such as electrification, increased use of synthetics and other greener energy sources.

About BAE Systems

We provide some of the world’s most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions and employ a skilled workforce of some 89,600 people in more than 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop technology that helps to save lives, protect borders and people, strengthen nations, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

About Pipistrel

Pipistrel is a world-leading small aircraft designer and manufacturer, specialising in energy-efficient and affordable high-performance aircraft. With more than 30 years of experience, and having sold 2,500+ aircraft in 97 countries, Pipistrel has earned an international reputation for delivering unique, innovative products to passionate customers on all continents. First-to-fly an electric two-seater aircraft in 2007 and the winner of the NASA Green Flight Challenge in 2011 with the world’s first electric four-seat aircraft, Pipistrel has designed many different experimental and serially produced electric aircraft, including the first type-certified electric aircraft, the Velis Electro. With involvement in standardisation committees, i.e. ASTM F44.40, F39.05, SAE AE7-D, and R&D initiatives, Pipistrel is helping to enable the future market of hybrid-electric aviation.

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