Rotorcraft

PRAGUE - Czech start-up Zuri has initiated ground testing for the first full-scale prototype of its uncrewed, hybrid-electric VTOL cargo aircraft as it prepares for flight testing in early 2027. Backed by €6 million ($7 million) in Series A funding, the Prague-based company expects to begin customer deliveries by 2029 and has already signed letters of intent with two prospective buyers, including Netherlands-based Ambitious Air Mobility Group.

The remotely piloted drone features a 1,500 Wh/kg powertrain utilizing a piston engine paired with Emrax electric motors and small battery packs. Designed to reach cruise speeds of 120 knots, the aircraft is projected to carry a payload exceeding 220 pounds with a range of approximately 309 nautical miles, plus a 30-minute landing reserve. An alternative surveillance variant with extra fuel tanks could achieve a range of nearly 1,000 nautical miles. Built entirely from aluminum to lower manufacturing costs, the airframe features distributed propulsion, redundant fly-by-wire controls, and a cargo bay free from U.S. ITAR export restrictions.

Targeting applications such as island resupply, offshore energy operations, and military logist

Source: AIN
Associated URL: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2026-08-26/zuri-prepares-fly-hybrid-electric-cargo-drone
Author: Charles Alcock 

NEW DELHI - Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have officially signed a contract with SAFHAL, their joint venture established in 2023, to power India’s next-generation heavy rotorcraft. The new deal covers the design, development, manufacture, supply, and lifecycle support for the 3,500-4,000 shp (2,610-2,983 kW) Aravalli engine.

Engineered to equip HAL’s planned 13-tonne (28,660 lb) Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), the engine represents a significant step toward self-reliance in aerospace engine development.

The IMRH program, which has been in development for over a decade, aims to replace the Indian Air Force’s aging fleet of Mil Mi-17 helicopters with an indigenously designed platform capable of carrying up to 36 troops. While early prototypes will initially rely on interim engines producing around 2,800 shp (2,088 kW), the higher-rated Aravalli powerplant will power production aircraft if SAFHAL completes development.

Source: Flightglobal
Associated URL: https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters-defence/2026/08/hal-safran-sign-contract-for-powerful-new-helicopter-engine/

WASHINGTON - The U.S. has approved a Norwegian request to purchase UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.

On August 21, the U.S. State Department issued a press release announcing the approval, which covers the Norwegian request for 21 UH-60Ms, along with 46 T700-GE-701D engines and various onboard systems including AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems, Common Infrared Countermeasures, AN/APR-39E(V)2 Radar Warning Receivers, and navigation and communication gear.

The total estimated value of the deal is $2.3 billion.

The UH-60M helicopters will "upgrade Norway’s rotary wing capability, allowing Norwegian Army and Special Operations Forces to independently conduct operations while taking advantage of a common platform across the fleet," the press release noted. Norway had previously requested to purchase nine HH-60W helicopters, and was approved for that acquisition in July 2025. Norway canceled that acquisition in June, however, before signing a contract.

If acquired, Norway would likely replace its Bell 412 fleet with the UH-60Ms.

Source: State Department
Associated URL: https://www.state.gov/releases/bureau-of-political-military-affairs/2026/08/norway-uh-60m-black-hawk-helicopters/