European autonomous systems developer TEKEVER has acquired Edinburgh-based engineering firm Flowcopter to integrate its hydraulic propulsion technology into long-endurance, heavy-lift uncrewed aerial platforms.
The two companies previously 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 operational endurance and payload capacity that includes carrying at least 200kg over 500km. By bringing Flowcopter’s engineering expertise into the group, TEKEVER plans to accelerate the development of heavy-lift platforms for applications such as forward logistics, casualty evacuation, offshore operations, search and rescue, disaster relief, and crewed-uncrewed teaming.
The transaction expands TEKEVER’s UK presence into Edinburgh while preserving Flowcopter’s engineering presence under the TEKEVER brand. This investment strengthens a nationwide network of engineering, manufacturing, testing, and operational facilities across London, Bristol, Southampton, West Wales, Lydd, and Swindon, bringing TEKEVER’s UK workforce to more than 300 people. The acquisition is part of OVERMATCH, TEKEVER’s long-term, £400m investment programme aimed at expanding sovereign autonomy capabilities in the UK.
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.”
Karl Brew, Director of TEKEVER UK, added, “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.”
Peter McCurry, Flowcopter Managing Director, stated, “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.”
Financial terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed.
