Aerodata Reveals New AeroForce X Drone for Long Range ISR Missions

Aerodata AG has introduced the AeroForce X, a new medium altitude long endurance drone designed for next generation intelligence and reconnaissance missions. The German company is known for its advanced aviation solutions. With this new platform, it is aiming to support modern armed forces with better situational awareness, stronger protection and more flexible mission options. Aeroforce wrote about it and let us know.

Built for Long Missions and Heavy Payloads

The AeroForce X is designed to cover the entire mission chain. It can handle classic ISR tasks, electronic reconnaissance and operations that require heavy payloads. The drone can stay in the air for up to forty hours. It has a maximum takeoff weight under five tonnes and can carry as much as one point three tonnes of mission equipment.

These numbers place it in the class of high endurance systems that can support long range operations. The extra payload space also lets operators mix sensors, communication tools and specialized gear. This makes the drone suitable for border security, battlefield support and infrastructure protection.

The platform is modular. Operators can configure it for complex environments or mission specific needs. Aerodata says the drone can also work alongside manned reconnaissance aircraft. This teamwork improves the quality of information and increases overall efficiency.

Designed Without ITAR Restrictions

One of the standout features of the AeroForce X is that it is fully ITAR free. This means it is available to international partners without the typical restrictions tied to US export controls. For many countries, this makes the drone easier to buy, integrate and operate.

Neset Tükenmez, the CEO of Aerodata AG, said the company wanted to create a rapid and tailored solution for current surveillance challenges. He said the platform combines high end sensors with mission proven technology to deliver accuracy and reliability even in harsh conditions.

The drone is developed and manufactured entirely in Germany. Aerodata highlights this as a mark of quality and safety. The first ground tests and early flight trials are planned for 2026.

DroneXL’s Take

Aerodata is stepping into a competitive market with a strong entry. A modular MALE drone with long endurance and a heavy payload slot will appeal to many defense customers, especially outside the US. The ITAR free status is also a big advantage because more countries can buy it without long approval delays. The real question will be how fast Aerodata can move from early testing to full operational use. If the system performs as promised, it could become an important option for ISR and border security missions in the coming years, and who knows, compete against big names in the industry.

Photo credit: Aerodata