General Atomics

HAV and Defentia enter strategic collaboration

Bedford based Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), developer of lighter-than-air dual-use hybrid aircraft Airlander, is exploring new opportunities in Spain with Defentia, a systems integrator of civilian and military applications.

Airlander
Photo: HAV

Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV) and Defentia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at developing a number of strategic collaboration opportunities in Spain. The agreement will explore financing, production and partnership opportunities, whilst providing important access to European markets.

Spain’s growing investment in sustainable innovation and focus on dual-use capabilities make it an ideal market for Airlander 10 and its expansion across the European continent. Defentia’s team add unique insight to the legal, political and industrial landscape in Spain, one of Europe’s fastest-growing defence and sustainability-focused nations.

Building sustainable aerospace and defence capabilities

This marks an important step in recognising the ever-evolving defence industry and the pressure on NATO countries to increase defence capability and spending without compromising their sustainability imperative.

Francisco Latasa, Board Member & Head of Legal Affairs, Defentia, said: “At Defentia, we see this agreement as the beginning of something truly transformative.

“Airlander has the potential to change the future of mobility by proving that technological progress, security and sustainability can advance together. We are honoured to stand alongside Hybrid Air Vehicles in bringing this vision to life, helping position Spain as a key industrial and strategic hub for a new generation of aviation that will leave a lasting legacy for Europe and the world.”

Toni Green, Head of the CEO’s Office, Hybrid Air Vehicles, said: “Spain represents an important strategic opportunity for Hybrid Air Vehicles as we continue to develop a sustainable aviation business with clear dual-use relevance. The country combines established aerospace and defence capability, access to European and international markets and a strong policy and investment environment for the green transition.

“Our collaboration with Defentia provides a structured route to assess the industrial, institutional and commercial opportunity in Spain, including the partnerships and local footprint that would be required to support future growth.”

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