Tekever sells drones to US special operations command
Portugal’s Tekever has sold unmanned aerial systems to USSOCOM, strengthening its position in the US defence market after operational testing.
Portuguese drone maker Tekever has sold unmanned aerial systems to the US Special Operations Command, or USSOCOM, in a deal that strengthens the company’s foothold in the world’s largest defence market. The company said the purchase followed a testing and operational evaluation campaign, although it did not disclose the model, the number of systems acquired or the contract value.
According to Tekever, the systems completed a validation and acceptance programme that included specific training and an extensive flight campaign across several locations. The drones are intended for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions in demanding operational settings.
Each system combines the aircraft with mission-adapted sensors, communications equipment and artificial intelligence software, allowing information to be gathered through an integrated autonomous platform. In a statement, chief executive Ricardo Mendes said the acquisition was “an important milestone” in a relationship built over time through testing, open dialogue and a focus on operational capability.
Tekever had already been expanding in the US. In May, the company opened a “strategic hub” in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to provide technical support, coordination and day-to-day interaction with US-based partners. In September, it announced a first closing of a funding round of more than €500 million, valuing the company at more than €5.5 billion.
Originally published at Eco.pt
