Aeronautics to upgrade Finland's small UAS fleet as country cements NATO entry
Finland selected the Orbiter 2 in 2012, ordering 180 aircraft across 45 systems. (Photo: Finnish Defence Forces)
Israeli UAV manufacturer Aeronautics has signed a contract with the Finnish Defence Forces to upgrade the country's Orbiter 2 mini-UAS fleet.
Aeronautics has signed a mid-life upgrade contract with the Finnish Defense Forces (FDF) for its in-service Orbiter 2 Mini UAS fleet.
Aeronautics will provide the customer with a comprehensive package that includes a full suite of sensors, avionics, and data-processing systems to enhance system performance.
The contract will also involve a transfer of know-how, increasing self-sufficiency, and underpinning maintenance and support capabilities over ten years.
Related Articles
Elbit selected by Finland for radio comms contract
General Atomics offers two UAS to Ukraine for a dollar
Aeronautics inks agreement for producing Orbiter 4 UAVs in Thailand
'We are delighted to be reinforcing our relationship with the Finnish Defence Forces through this new contract,' said Matan Perry, VP marketing and sales at Aeronautics. 'This mid-life upgrade of the Orbiter 2 will significantly extend its lifespan, assuring the FDF high-quality, cost-efficient, tactical ISR capabilities for the next decade.'
According to Shephard Defence Insight, in May 2012, Finland's MoD selected the Orbiter 2 for a 20-year programme to equip, train and support tactical ground forces. As part of the contract, worth a then $31 million, Aeronautics would provide up to 45 Orbiter systems, comprising up to 180 uncrewed aircraft.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Sweden requests approval to pursue Gripen and GlobalEye sales to Peru and Denmark]()
Sweden requests approval to pursue Gripen and GlobalEye sales to Peru and Denmark
The Swedish Government has asked parliament to authorise two possible export sales as part of its 2025 Spring amending budget bill.
-
![Collins prepares expansion of the US Navy/Marine Tactical Combat Training System Inc II]()
Collins prepares expansion of the US Navy/Marine Tactical Combat Training System Inc II
The company has been negotiating the supply of TCTS II to US allies and partners.
-
![Spanish Air Force receives first converted A330 MRTT]()
Spanish Air Force receives first converted A330 MRTT
The second and third Airbus A330 MRTT for the Spanish Air Force have been undergoing conversion in Getafe, Madrid.
-
![Indonesia commits to further collaboration with Turkey, eyes Kaan jet and MILDEN programmes]()
Indonesia commits to further collaboration with Turkey, eyes Kaan jet and MILDEN programmes
The two countries have already signed defence industrial partnerships in recent years, most recently between Republikorp and Turkish firm Baykar in February 2025.
