The French Ministry of the Armed Forces has ordered eight U050 Capa-X drones from Airbus Helicopters, a versatile aerial system set to be used by both the French Navy and the Army starting in 2027. On September 10, 2026, Airbus confirmed the new contract, which involves the acquisition of four "systems," each consisting of two drones, totaling eight units. Two of these systems will go to the Navy, and the other two to the Army. This acquisition is part of the SDTL (Light Tactical Drone System) program, which began with the purchase of a first unit by the end of 2025. The Capa-X drones underwent extensive testing in 2025 and 2026 with various French military units, both on land and at sea. During these trials, the drones demonstrated seven hours of flight autonomy, a range of 100 kilometers, and the ability to carry two payloads at once. The system is designed for rapid deployment, requiring no more than two pickup trucks to transport all components. Victor Gerin-Roze, head of drone programs at Airbus Helicopters, expressed pride in the selection, stating that the U050 Capa-X will now enter the operational phase. He emphasized that this version is just the beginning, with future designs expected to evolve based on military needs. The U050 Capa-X is a hybrid aircraft capable of taking off like a traditional airplane on a runway or vertically from confined spaces, like a helicopter. Its modular design allows for adjustable wings—short for speed or long for endurance. The entire system can be deployed on the ground in under 20 minutes, making it particularly useful in emergency scenarios. The drone weighs 120 kilograms, can climb to 3,000 meters, and reach speeds of up to 150 km/h in its short-wing configuration. It has a 6-meter wingspan and can carry up to 20 kilograms of payload. Airbus claims it can fly for up to ten hours, even in environments where satellite navigation is jammed, which is a valuable asset in sensitive or contested areas. In its initial version, the Capa-X is equipped with an optronic sphere for imaging and electromagnetic intelligence capabilities, allowing it to monitor, detect, and analyze terrain without the need for a pilot. The system is built on a flexible architecture that can accommodate a variety of sensors, both military and civilian, depending on the mission. Potential uses include border surveillance, infrastructure inspection, search and rescue operations, and even fire detection. This adaptability ensures the Capa-X can be used in a wide range of scenarios, making it a versatile asset for both military and civilian applications.