Airbus

Military helicopters

A comprehensive range for armed forces

More than 140 armed forces around the world rely on our products to meet a wide range of their operational needs, with aircraft adapted to excel in all types of military missions, including armed reconnaissance, utility, attack, naval, maritime and special operations. Airbus Helicopters not only meets today's military requirements, but is also paving the way for future requirements with its innovative latest generation helicopters.

Our military helicopter portfolio

Additional military products and services

Our UAS solutions

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Civil helicopters

Airbus Helicopters - 50 years anniversary

The most efficient helicopter solutions

Airbus Helicopters' mission is to provide customers with the most efficient rotorcraft solutions to serve, protect, save lives and transport people safely in demanding environments. From single and twin-engine light and medium rotorcraft to those in the eleven-tonne class, Airbus Helicopters has the right product for a broad spectrum of civil missions.

Our civil helicopter portfolio

Our global network
Airbus Helicopters is present in some 150 countries through its 30 customer centres and affiliates, 19 training centres, 96 service centres and 4 technical support hubs.
Our global network

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Space equipment

Spacecraft capability solutions

Airbus is a world leader in space equipment, offering an extensive and innovative portfolio of solutions for all types of space applications: telecommunications, constellations, Earth observation, navigation, scientific missions, exploration and launchers as well as dedicated solutions for New Space.

The Airbus space equipment business is made up of Airbus Defence and Space equipment departments in Germany, France, the Netherlands, Italy as well as the subsidiaries Jena-Optronik, TESAT and Airbus Crisa, which operate as stand-alone entities, serving a global customer base as a preferred partner.

We offer both standard products and customised solutions, leveraging an unparalleled track record of in-orbit reliability and one of the world’s largest flight proven portfolios available, backed by highly skilled teams that are continuously developing breakthrough technologies and industrial approaches.

Our avionics portfolio

Advanced Airbus avionics provide precise control, sensors, actuators and data management for space missions, increasing reliability.

Our power portfolio

European leader in power solutions, offering turnkey solar arrays, photovoltaic assemblies, and advanced power electronics.

Our payload portfolio

Airbus offers a wide range of payload instruments and equipment designed for every mission. From advanced data handling and storage systems to high-precision timing solutions and state-of-the-art RF and laser communication systems, our innovative technologies ensure reliable performance, adaptability, and success for various space applications.

Our On ground portfolio

Ground solutions and services for any mission : compensated compact ranges, associated antennas, spacecraft RF test services.

Our launcher portfolio

Airbus provides the highest quality products, electronics, and structures for space launch applications.

Airbus, a major player in New Space

New Space

Pioneering the New Space era
Airbus, a key player in New Space, designs cutting-edge equipment for lighter, more efficient, and sustainable satellites with compact and low-power solutions.

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Get in touch with our Technical Team to learn more.

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The latest space equipment news

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Space customer support

Airbus Space Satellites orbiting the Earth

Tailored to customer needs

For more than a decade, customers around the world have appreciated close and long-lasting partnerships with Airbus Defence and Space. With their customised satellite or connectivity system, each customer has access to a wide range of capacity building and service options, ranging from full in-orbit delivery to satellite data storage solutions.

Supporting our customers throughout their programme’s lifecycle and ensuring their comprehensive mission expertise is a key part of our philosophy.

Our products and services portfolio

The latest Space news

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Space exploration

Pushing engineering to its limits

For decades, Airbus has been at the heart of space exploration, developing the technology that enables mankind to send spacecraft to planets, moons and comets.

Our clean rooms have been the starting point for several missions, including: Mars Express, Gaia and JUICE for which we designed and built the satellites for the European Space Agency (ESA).

NASA is planning to land astronauts on the Moon again with its Artemis programme. And for the first time ever, it has selected a non-US company, Airbus, to build the Orion European Service Module (ESM).

The commercial use of the International Space Station (ISS) is opening up opportunities for access to space. Whatever the mission in low Earth orbit, Airbus offers mission services on board the ISS, hosting either external payloads or experiments inside the ISS, as well as other microgravity options.

We are preparing for when the ISS comes to the end of its life with Starlab, the next generation space station.

To the Moon and Mars

Contributing to humanity’s exploration is in our blood! With 40-plus years of experience, we take exploration to new heights.

Deep and outer space explorers

Airbus contributes to humanity’s exploration of our universe with spacecraft and telescopes.

Space stations

Airbus plays a significant role in human spaceflight-related activities for the ISS and its future replacement.

Orion European Service Module

Back to the Moon

The European Service Module: an integral part of NASA’s Artemis mission

Under a European Space Agency (ESA) contract, Airbus builds the European Service Module (ESM), which both propels and manoeuvres the Orion spacecraft and provides the crew with water and oxygen.

Learn more about the ESM

Artemis II astronauts discover a key component of the Orion spacecraft

Understanding the hardware they’ll rely on is vital, as astronauts for the upcoming Artemis II Moon mission experienced.

Learn more about Artemis

Artemis II crew visits Orion ESM at Airbus Bremen

Discover how the European Service Module takes shape

The ESM is a highly-complex spacecraft, with the assembly, integration and testing of more than 20,000 parts.

Learn more about ESM

Sounding rockets

Through the TEXUS/MAXUS Sounding Rocket Programme, Airbus offers an end-to-end service to scientists and experimenters – a unique opportunity to perform technological experiments and investigations under microgravity conditions with key benefits: late access for sample installation, real-time transmission, telecommand capabilities, and short time samples delivery.

Learn more about TEXUS

The history of space exploration
Find out more about Airbus’ contribution to space exploration through some of our historic products such as Ulysses, Rosetta, Gaia ou MarsExpress.
Learn more about the history

The latest Space news

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Telecommunications and Navigation satellites

Tailored solutions for different applications

Seamless, high-speed communications and internet services around the globe would not be possible without telecommunications satellites.

The growing demand for connectivity, fast, reliable and secure communications, added to increasing use of data have made telecommunications satellites a critical asset. We help people connect with our Geostationary satellites such as Eurostar Neo and OneSat, and our Low Earth Orbit constellation Oneweb.

Navigation satellites are equally essential, guiding us safely and accurately around the globe. Our navigation systems have helped revolutionise the way we live (satnav, delivery services, location-based applications).

Galileo, Europe's Global Navigation Satellite System, enables us to calculate our position and time on Earth with pinpoint accuracy. It opens up opportunities for a wide range of services such as critical emergency response, time-stamped financial transactions, and precision agriculture.

The EGNOS system improves the accuracy of Galileo and GPS systems, increasing navigation performance and safety during critical phases such as aircraft landing.

Our Telecoms portfolio

Airbus' communications satellites provide customised solutions and missions for the world's leading operators.

Satellite Connectivity Services
We are able to uniquely offer our customers access to the full spectrum of frequency bands and access to secure communications solutions using laser technology.
More about Space Connectivity

Galileo, a unique European constellation

Navigation

Airbus at the forefront of the Galileo programme

Since Galileo’s inception,Airbus has provided major system expertise to the European Space Agency, the European GNSS Agency and the European Union in support of the programme.

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A wide range of applications helping society function

Galileo satellites offer precise global positioning, enhancing navigation, and emergency services, while boosting efficiency in agriculture and ensuring the integrity of data in banking systems.

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Arrival of Galileo to the Friedrichshafen cleanroom

European autonomy in space
Space plays a crucial role in Europe’s strategic autonomy to preserve our daily lives, ensure our security and our secure infrastructure.
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The latest telecommunications news

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Airbus UK Pension Scheme

Airbus UK Pension Scheme | Schedule 1
A tax-efficient hybrid scheme consisting of a “Defined Benefit” final salary pension scheme with an investment top up
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Airbus UK Pension Scheme | Schedule 2
A Defined Benefit final salary pension scheme and a tax efficient way to save for your retirement.
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Airbus UK Pension Scheme | Schedule 3
Each year you are an active member you will build up a pensionbased on the base pension level you opted for
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Airbus UK Pension Scheme | Schedule 4
The Retirement Plan is a defined contribution, money purchase pension pension scheme for all new employees.
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Airbus UK Pension Scheme | Schedule 5
Your pension contributions are made under a salary sacrifice pension arrangement
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My Benefits
Log in to your My Benefits to learn which part of the Pension Scheme applies to you.
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Your Pension Record
Visit ePensions Administration to view your own pension record, run retirement quotes or update your Expression of Wish nomination.
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Manage your Account
Your “Retirement Account” are administered by Legal & General.
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Pension news

The Annual Report and Accounts are available.

You can view the latest edition of Pension news for your section by clicking on the links below. The Trustee issues a newsletter at least once a year. Any links that refer to Pension news should link to the newest tab.

Most members are in the Airbus UK Pension Scheme, only members who joined Airbus after 1 November 2013 will be in the Airbus UK Retirement Plan.

In order to view Pension news, you will need to have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader software installed on your computer.

Copies of the Pension Newsletter are available via your EPa or MYA online account.

Email to receive a copy

Frequestly asked questions

Please find some answers to FAQs on the UK Pension Scheme.

Is there life assurance?

Yes, the life assurance cover depends upon which schedule you belong to. However, there are restrictions if you did not join the scheme when first eligible.

Will my spouse get a pension if I die in service?

If you are a member of either schedule 1 or 3 your Spouse will receive a pension on your death in service. However, there are restrictions if you did not join the scheme when first eligible.
Schedule 1 "Protection for your family on death"
Schedule 3 "Protection for your family on death"
If you are a member of Schedule 2 you can buy extra life assurance and you receive tax relief on the premiums. Schedule 2 "Protection for your family on death".
There is no spouse's pension payable from the Airbus UK Retirement Plan

When can I draw my pension?

The normal retirement age is 65. However, you can ask your employer to draw the pension early, but not before age 55. If the pension is taken early the value will be reduced to take account of the longer payment period. You cannot draw your pension and carry on working for the employer.

How are my contributions invested?

DB - The contributions into the core scheme meet the overall cost of providing the core benefits which are linked to your final pay and service. The employer pays the balance of the cost.For Schedule 1 or pay Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) you have a range of funds in which you can invest with L&G. If you don't make a choice, then your pot will be invested in the Airbus Cash Lifestyle Profile.
DC - Your contributions are invested in a range of funds offered by the Trustee. If you don't make a choice, then your Retirement Fund will be invested in the Airbus Drawdown Lifestyle Profile.

What type of pension scheme do Airbus offer in the UK?

Schedules 1, 2 and 3 are based on a formula linked to your pay near the date you leave or retire from the Scheme and the length of your pensionable service in the Scheme.
See the “How it Works" page Schedule 1, Schedule 2, Schedule 3
Airbus UK Retirement Plan is a defined contribution scheme.

What options do I get at retirement?

DB - You can exchange part of your core pension for a cash sum, which is tax free.The remaining pension is then paid monthly.. If you have AVCs or Retirement Account investments you will be able to choose how to use the fund. The Pension administrators will send you a Retirement Pack as you approach retirement.
DC - There are three key options, buying an annuity, taking a flexible income or taking cash – you can take your whole pot in one go. In addition 25% of your pot to be taken tax free with the remainder taxed at your marginal rate.

More information at www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

What happens if I go on maternity/paternity/adoption leave?

Whilst you continue to be paid, membership continues as normal. When unpaid leave applies, pension contributions stop, but you remain a full member of the pension scheme and continue to be covered for life assurance. If you return from leave your pension deductions will recommence, and you will be given the option to pay arrears of pension contributions to make up the gap in pensionable service. If you do not pay the contribution arrears you will have a break in service. If you do not return from maternity/paternity/adoption leave, you will be treated as a leaver from the date of unpaid leave.

How is my pension calculated, if I change my working hours?

DB - An adjustment will be made to your pension calculation. The service part of the calculation will be converted to give you a proportion of the full time equivalent service. For example, if you work half the number of hours you would be given half the amount of service. Your scheme pay used to calculate your pension is also converted to a full time rate of pay. If you work half the number of hours your rate of pensionable pay would be doubled (i.e. to a full time equivalent). This method is used for each change.
DC - All contributions are based on the basic pay received.

Can I transfer pension benefits into the Scheme from other pension schemes?

The Trustee does not accept transfers into the Scheme from other pension arrangements for Schedules 1, 2 or 3.

Transfers from other registered pension schemes may be accepted into the Airbus UK Retirement Plan.

What happens if I leave employment?

DB You will become a deferred member, which will be calculated based on your pensionable pay and service up to the date you leave. The deferred pension will be increased between your date of leaving and your retirement date. Any fund value with L&G will remain invested until you retire. The Pension administrator will contact you automatically to inform you of your benefits and options about two months after you leave the Scheme.
DC If you leave the Plan after one month then your Retirement Fund will remain invested until you retire or transfer your Fund to another registered pension scheme.

What is the Pension Consultative Committee?

The Pension Consultative Committee (PCC) is a body of representatives who are selected by members of the Airbus Pension Scheme to provide a fair representation for all members of the Scheme.

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Privacy Policy and Investment Statement

The Trustees of the Airbus UK Pension Scheme is committed to protecting the rights of individuals in line with the UK GDPR (EU) 2016/679 of the Europeean Parliament.

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Contact Airbus Pension team

They cannot give financial advice but can help you understand your retirement options and answer other questions you may have on the schemes you are a member of.

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Military Space

A cornerstone for armed forces

The role of space-based products and services are increasingly of strategic importance for defence and security actors. Space-based capabilities such as communication, navigation, real-time intelligence and surveillance, are critical for military forces to fulfil their missions.

Airbus’ military satellites communication solutions ensure our customers are always connected and ready for the growing amount of data to be collected and disseminated, on the ground, at sea, in the air and in orbit. These secure, flexible and scalable communications systems enable our customers to exchange critical information with appropriate connectivity, and to preserve individual national sovereign interests.

Military Earth observation satellites help strengthen nations' ability to plan and conduct operations. Our optical to radar satellite imagery provides decision-makers with the ability to enhance security, optimise mission planning and operations, improve performance and scale management resources.

We offer a broad portfolio: from satellites and ground stations, to complete end-to-end systems and services for full operational capability

Discover more about services

Military Satellite Communications

Connectivity
The most comprehensive satellite communications bandwidth and the best-in-class capabilities for network services and solutions.
Learn more about Connectivity

Military earth observation

CSO (Composante Spatiale Optique) - Optical capabilities for the French Armed Forces

The CSO constellation provides extremely high resolution geo information intelligence to the French Armed Forces and to its partners in the frame of the MUSIS cooperation programme.

SARah-1 - Radar capability for the German Bundeswehr

Equipped with the latest radar technology, SARah-1 provides extremely high-resolution observation of the Earth's surface, regardless of time of day and weather conditions.

Artistic-impression-SARah-1-Copyright-Airbus - website

CERES - Space-based Signal Intelligence Capability

CERES is France’s first signal intelligence satellite system, designed to detect and geo-locate electromagnetic signals from radio communication systems and radars in areas where surface sensors cannot reach. From its low Earth orbit, CERES is free from airspace overflight constraints and can operate in all types of weather. The system provides in-depth information to support military operations for the French Armed Forces, thus improving situational awareness.

Geospatial imagery for Defence & Intelligence

Our constellation enhances projection preparation, precise location of enemy positions and better anticipation for increased responsiveness and protection.

The latest Defence news

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Military Aircraft

Airbus-Military-family-flight-Seville-air-to-air

Ensuring the success of air force missions

On duty for our customers

Airbus military aircraft help strengthen global security, protect citizens, defend NATO's eastern flank and airspace around the world, and deliver aid in times of crisis. Armed forces rely on Airbus' proven family of military aircraft to accomplish their missions, day in and day out, underscoring the company's ability to design, manufacture and support fixed-wing aircraft for a wide range of applications.

In line with its commitment to provide world-class customer support, Airbus also offers an extended portfolio of services to ensure that customers can fulfil their missions under the most demanding conditions. The portfolio includes flight and ground crew training, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) solutions, aircraft and systems upgrades, material services and support engineering.

Military Aircraft

Defence

Airbus' current product line includes the world's most versatile airlifter, the A400M; the robust and reliable C295 tactical transport; the new generation A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT); and the Eurofighter, a true swing-role combat aircraft and Europe’s largest military programme.

Maintaining aircraft mission readiness

Defence

For many decades, Airbus has offered its customers a wide range of services. From flight and ground crew training to live fire exercises anywhere in the world. We allow our customers to focus on their mission while we take care of the rest.

Total Defence Orders and Deliveries
Total Orders: 2158
Total Deliveries: 1825
Total in Operation: 1486
More on the latest figures

The latest Military Aircraft news

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Uncrewed Aerial Systems

Airbus UAS: Capabilities for every mission

Airbus develops, supports, and operates cutting-edge Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) technology, meeting global military, government, and commercial needs.

Leveraging decades of flight expertise and a decade supporting armed forces, Airbus offers proven military expertise to civil and institutional customers.

Our UAS provide essential capabilities for diverse missions. For Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), they offer real-time monitoring with high-resolution sensors. Eurodrone provides multi-mission ISR; Flexrotor, long-endurance ISR for naval and expeditionary forces; and our stratospheric Zephyr, persistent ISR and vital connectivity for disaster management.

In combat missions, our systems enhance air superiority through automatic targeting. For naval operations, Airbus drones like the tactical VSR700 and SIRTAP improve maritime awareness and threat detection.

Our products also support air mobility and logistics, delivering vital supplies to challenging locations. Furthermore, Airbus UAS facilitate realistic, cost-effective training for air defence and air combat.

Products

Technologies, systems and autonomy enablers

Support and services

Advancing air power with uncrewed aerial systems

Mission-focused UAS

Intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance

Airbus UAS provide real-time intelligence, surveillance, and threat detection using high-resolution sensors. Whether on land or at sea, they support missions across all domains.

Combat and training

Airbus UAS contribute to air superiority through automatic target acquisition and adaptable payloads. They also enhance air defence training by facilitating tactical exercises featuring realistic threat simulations.

Air mobility and logistics

Airbus UAS deliver vital supplies and aid to disaster areas and conflict zones, providing rapid and reliable support where traditional transport is inadequate.

The VSR700 lands itself on the deck of a French frigate

UAS: Powering multi-domain operations
Airbus' solutions and technologies are vital for enabling multi-domain operations from an air perspective, seamlessly integrating UAS.
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A rich heritage of UAS experience

Innovations, concepts and demonstrators

Airbus has decades of experience in unmanned systems through concept studies and technology demonstrators such as Talarion, EuroHawk, Quadcruiser, ATLANTE and the stealth demonstrators LOUT and SAGITTA.

In the beginning…

Airbus has been involved in UAS since 1966 with the Dornier Kiebitz. The KZO, developed by STN ATLAS Elektronik and Rheinmetall Defence Electronics, now Airbus Defence and Space Airborne Solutions, first flew in 1998 and has been in service with the German Army since 2004.

Europe’s first UCAV demonstrator

The Barracuda was Europe's first Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator and is proof that even 20 years ago Airbus had a concrete vision for the future of air power. The skills and experience gained are now being applied to the Remote Carriers for Manned-Unmanned Teaming and the Eurodrone.