Rotron to be acquired by Ondas
Image courtesy Rotron
The transaction represents a major milestone in Rotron’s evolution and is expected to significantly strengthen its ability to deliver scalable, mission-critical unmanned and autonomous capabilities to defence and security customers across the UK, NATO and allied markets. Upon completion, Rotron will join Ondas Autonomous Systems, integrating its long-range unmanned aerial vehicles, autonomous strike platforms and proprietary propulsion technologies into a broader system-of-systems architecture designed for modern contested operational environments.
Founded in the UK and operating at the intersection of propulsion, autonomy and platform design, Rotron has built a strong reputation for delivering high-performance, attritable unmanned systems optimised for range, manufacturability and operational resilience. The acquisition will position Rotron to meet growing global demand for cost-effective autonomous technologies that reduce risk to personnel while enabling extended reach and persistence in high-threat environments.
Rotron’s portfolio includes long-endurance dual-use vertical take-off and landing systems and next-generation uncrewed combat aerial vehicles designed for precision autonomous engagement. Flagship platforms such as the Talon multirole VTOL series and the Defendor one-way autonomous attack system reflect Rotron’s vertically integrated approach to platform design. Talon incorporates a proprietary three-bladed rotor head system optimised for endurance, stability and manufacturability, while Defendor is powered by Rotron’s proprietary engines and fan-drive systems, delivering tightly integrated performance tailored to demanding defence missions.
Gilo Cardozo, Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Rotron, said: “This marks a defining moment in Rotron’s journey and our vision for the future of unmanned systems. By combining our propulsion-led engineering, aerial platforms and rapid industrialisation capability with Ondas’ autonomous systems architecture and global reach, we will gain the scale and network to deliver more capability, faster, for allied defence customers worldwide. Rotron’s mission, team and engineering culture remain unchanged—this partnership will enable us to accelerate innovation and expand our impact for the UK and its allies.”
Operating within the UK defence ecosystem, Rotron brings an established presence in UK and allied markets, alongside strong relationships across Ministry of Defence and NATO environments. Its vertically integrated model supports rapid prototyping through to full industrialisation, enabling sovereign capability to be fielded at pace and scale.
Mark Green, Global Head of Corporate Development and Mergers and Acquisitions at Ondas Inc., said: “Rotron brings elite engineering talent, advanced propulsion technology and mission-specific platforms that are expected to significantly expand our defence solutions portfolio. The business establishes a vital footprint within the UK and NATO ecosystems and directly supports our strategy to deliver integrated, long-range autonomous systems for modern military operations.”
Following completion of the transaction, Rotron will continue to operate from the UK, retaining its engineering, manufacturing and programme delivery teams. The business will maintain its focus on supporting existing customers and partners while benefiting from increased investment, global reach and access to a broader autonomous systems portfolio within Ondas Autonomous Systems.
