Advanced Capabilities & Certification for Tactical UAV Systems

Project Overview:

The ACTUS project is a European Defence Fund initiative focused on developing, certifying, and demonstrating next-generation Tactical Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (T-RPAS). With increasing demands for autonomy, survivability, and interoperability, ACTUS directly addresses challenges faced by military UAV operations in contested environments. ACTUS will significantly enhance UAVs’ ability to operate autonomously in contested environments, independently from ground-based control and GNSS support. Through the integration of AI-powered mission management systems and advanced cybersecurity measures, the platform will enable real-time situational awareness and decision-making. To ensure survivability, ACTUS incorporates low-observable designs, ice protection systems, and electronic countermeasures, allowing T-RPAS units to perform effectively even under the most demanding operational conditions. The system supports multi-modal operations, including reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition, and weapons delivery, with state-of-the-art weapon integration on a certified T-RPAS platform.

Moreover, ACTUS emphasizes interoperability, enabling seamless integration with existing NATO and EU defence infrastructures through secure communications, encrypted data sharing, and coordinated mission execution across platforms. Finally, the system will meet stringent airworthiness certification standards, ensuring the safe operation of military T-RPASs within civilian airspace during peacetime and training missions.

PARTNERS

The project is supported by seven European Ministries of Defence, ensuring its alignment with European security needs and strengthening the continent’s sovereignty.

Fact Sheet: ACTUS FACTSHEET