TEKEVER acquires Edinburgh-based Flowcopter

TEKEVER has acquired Flowcopter, the company behind an innovative hydraulic transmission technology for aerospace propulsion, which enables unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to carry heavier payloads over greater distances.

The move marks a significant step in TEKEVER’s continued expansion in the UK. Karl Brew, Director of TEKEVER UK, said: “As demand increases for autonomous systems capable of operating further, carrying more and delivering greater mission flexibility, the combined capabilities of the technologies developed by Flowcopter and TEKEVER’s advanced platforms strengthens our ability to address evolving requirements across both governmental and commercial sectors.”

How the acquisition will enhance heavy-lift systems for a range of applications

By bringing Flowcopter’s engineering expertise and breakthrough propulsion technology into the TEKEVER group, the company will further accelerate the development of long-endurance, heavy-lift aerial platforms for applications such as forward logistics, casualty evacuation, offshore operations, SAR (search and rescue) and disaster relief, while also supporting advanced concepts such as crewed-uncrewed teaming.

Through this investment, TEKEVER adds Edinburgh to its growing UK presence, further strengthening its nationwide network of engineering, manufacturing, testing and operational facilities. TEKEVER now employs more than 300 people across the UK, with existing offices, factories and test facilities in London, Bristol, Southampton, West Wales, Lydd and Swindon.

Flowcopter and TEKEVER have already established a strong collaborative relationship through the development of TEKEVER’s AR6 family of systems. The first platform in the family, unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow in July, incorporates Flowcopter’s novel hydraulic transmission technology, delivering significant payload capacity and operational endurance, including the ability to carry at least 200kg over 500km.

Ricardo Mendes, TEKEVER CEO, said: “Flowcopter has built an outstanding reputation for engineering innovation and has developed truly differentiated technology which addresses some of the most demanding challenges in uncrewed aviation.

“Having already worked closely together on the AR6 programme, we have seen first-hand the value of their expertise and the transformative potential of their hydraulic transmission system. This acquisition brings together two highly complementary organisations united by a shared vision to push the boundaries of what autonomous systems can achieve.”

Retaining development of propulsion tech and heavy-lift systems in Edinburgh

This expansion is part of the OVERMATCH, TEKEVER’s long-term, £400 million investment programme expanding sovereign autonomy capabilities in the UK. The acquisition will preserve Flowcopter’s engineering presence in Edinburgh under the TEKEVER brand, supporting the continued development of advanced propulsion and heavy-lift systems for next-generation aircraft.

Peter McCurry, Flowcopter Managing Director, added: “Joining TEKEVER represents an exciting new chapter for Flowcopter. From the outset, our mission has been to redefine the capabilities of unmanned aircraft through innovative engineering.

“Combining our technology with TEKEVER’s world-class autonomy, operational scale and international reach will enable us to accelerate development and bring new capabilities to customers faster than ever before.”