The UK-based Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV) has achieved a significant milestone with its first-ever defense order for the Airlander 10 hybrid airship, signaling the aircraft’s transition from civilian to military use. The company confirmed that an undisclosed defense contractor has placed reservations for three Airlander 10s, aiming to leverage their long-endurance and versatile mission capabilities for military operations.
Originally designed for civilian certification, the Airlander 10’s hybrid lift system—combining aerostatic and aerodynamic principles—allows it to remain airborne for up to five consecutive days without refueling. This endurance, paired with its ability to operate from unprepared terrain or water, offers a new dimension of flexibility for both surveillance and logistics missions in austere environments.
HAV emphasized the aircraft’s modular architecture, which enables rapid configuration for a variety of defense roles such as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), troop or cargo transport, and even drone swarm deployment. With a payload capacity exceeding three tonnes, the Airlander can host advanced radar, sensor suites, and communications systems essential for persistent monitoring in contested zones.
The platform’s low acoustic and thermal signature also gives it a stealth advantage over traditional aircraft, while its reduced fuel consumption ensures lower operational costs and environmental impact. HAV stated that it anticipates further military interest, as global armed forces increasingly seek long-endurance, cost-effective aerial platforms to complement satellites and manned reconnaissance aircraft.
