Robust European supply chain for mass production of unique single-rotor drone
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Hugr AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 000 000 |
| Project duration | May 2026 - May 2027 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | International cooperation |
| Call | Strengthening Swedish aerospace research and innovation through international collaboration - 2026 |
Purpose and goal
There is great uncertainty in today’s drone supply chains while the need for robust mass production is increasing, especially for defense. Europe is dependent on Chinese and American suppliers. Hugr AB has been awarded funding in NFFP8 for a high-TRL single-rotor drone without a swashplate that is easy to manufacture. The next step is to secure an all-European, robust supply chain for mass production - especially the control system, motor and rotor blades.
Expected effects and result
Expected results are a complete component list with European suppliers for the motor, rotor blades and control system; a European-made prototype of the localization and control system; optimized rotor blades and customized motor confirming high efficiency (approximately 12 g/W); a documented modular production line for mass production including cost and rate calculations; and a final report with recommendations for large-scale Swedish production and commercial launch.
Planned approach and implementation
Planned design and implementation includes six parallel work packages: propulsion, localization system, control system, supply chain and production, integration and demonstration, and project management. AP1–AP3 start immediately to develop rotor blades, engine and control system; AP4 prepares mass production on an ongoing basis; AP5 integrates and demonstrates a complete prototype and production module; AP6 handles management, meetings and documentation throughout the project.