Alpha Unmanned Systems, S.L. is a pioneering aeronautical engineering firm specializing in the production of compact tactical helicopter UAVs. established in 2014 and headquartered in Madrid, the company comprises a dynamic team of professionals committed to developing and supplying helicopter UAV platforms that serve as the preferred choice for maritime security, border surveillance, infrastructure assessments, and other vital operations.
With successful sales to the U.S. Department of Defence, the indonesian Coast Guard, and prominent clients across over nine nations, Alpha’s helicopters occupy a crucial niche in the market; they are small, fuel-powered tactical drones known for their reliability and adaptability across various missions.
Alpha’s helicopter UAVs are fully automated, capable of flying for up to four hours while carrying payloads of up to 4 kg, including some of the most advanced electronic sensors for both civilian and security applications. The company is ISO9001 certified, and its A900 platform adheres to “STANAG-Compliant” standards, featuring fully redundant critical systems.
Alpha Unmanned Systems offers a comprehensive engineering value chain for its small tactical fuel-powered helicopter UAVs and associated control systems. Collaborating closely with major defense contractors, Alpha also provides Advanced Engineering Services, utilizing its systems as test platforms for larger UAVs.
After nine years of organic growth, Alpha has successfully completed its inaugural seed funding round. The company is proud to have investors such as UAV industry expert Joseph Menaker,senior business advancement director Tobias Webster,and CFO Javier Castaño.With this financial backing and a robust support network, Alpha is poised to continue innovating and expanding its UAV helicopter platforms globally.
Helicopter UAVs
Alpha 900 – rotary Wing UAV
STANAG-compliant maritime drone for coast guard and naval applications
The Alpha 900 is a fuel-powered rotary-wing UAV engineered to perform exceptionally in demanding marine environments.With a maximum takeoff weight of under 25 kg, this STANAG 4738-compliant platform can easily launch and land on ship decks, featuring robust weatherproofing.
The adaptable naval drone can carry payloads of up to 4 kg and is equipped with both main and secondary payload bays, as well as external hard points and an internal electronics compartment.
This UAV is an optimal choice for ISR and security operations, notably for coast guard and naval missions.
Learn more: Alpha 900 Maritime drone >
Alpha 800 – Single Rotor Drone
Versatile rotary-wing UAV for civilian & military applications
The Alpha 800 is a highly adaptable multi-mission rotary-wing drone with minimal logistical demands and low maintenance needs. This reliable system can be transported in a pickup truck or van and can be operational within minutes.
This single-rotor drone can carry up to 3 kg and is suitable for a variety of civilian and military tasks, including mapping, inspections, surveillance, reconnaissance, and search and rescue operations.
Learn more: Alpha 800 Single Rotor Drone >
UAS Control Stations
vessel-Based Control System
Portable tracking antenna system for long-range maritime UAV communications
our vessel-based control system (VCS) employs dual-antenna GNSS technology and a high-gain gyrostabilized tracking antenna to ensure reliable long-range encrypted communications between UAVs and their motherships. Various datalink options are available, providing ranges of up to 50 km.
The system includes two rugged laptops for UAV and payload management, along with an IP67-rated rugged handheld joystick that allows communication via Ethernet at distances of up to 40 meters from the control center.
Learn more: Vessel-Based Control System >
G-Case Duo UAS Ground Control Station
Portable GCS with dual screens and rugged carry case
The G-Case Duo is a portable UAS GCS designed for dual operator use. This rugged and easily deployable system is housed in a waterproof Pelican case and features two sunlight-readable 15” HD displays for vehicle and payload control.
The GCS can be outfitted with various antenna systems to achieve communication ranges of up to 50 kilometers. It can simultaneously control up to four UAVs, UGVs, or USVs, with telemetry and video data transmitted via an encrypted MIMO link.
Learn more: G-Case Duo UAS GCS >
Alpha Target Systems
Our unmanned aerial targets, built on proven Alpha platforms, enable defense forces to train effectively against simulated manned helicopter threats using a variety of advanced weapon systems, including Ground-Based Air Defense (GBAD), Surface to Air Missiles (SAM), and Air to Air (AA) systems.
These robust aerial targets provide a slow-moving option that can hover and perform vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) from moving vessels, with up to four hours of autonomous flight. They can be outfitted with various payloads, including:
- Radar Enhancement & Cross-Section Amplification – both active and passive payloads
- IR Enhancement System – flares that simulate the heat signature of a full-size helicopter
- MDI Scoring – used to count small projectiles or as a scalar MDI for larger projectiles and missiles
- Visibility Enhancement – allows target drones to be detected and tracked more easily via radar, infrared, or visual methods
- Laser Reflecting Mirrors – enables precise targeting and simulation of real combat scenarios
Services
Payload Integration
We offer tailored payload integration services to meet your specific needs, encompassing all aspects of mechanical, electrical, and communications engineering, along with comprehensive testing. Options include high-resolution cameras, infrared thermal imagers, multispectral sensors, LiDAR scanners, magnetometers, altimeters, transponders, and more.
UAV Maintenance
We provide a comprehensive maintenance and service program that covers everything from minor repairs to complete overhauls, ensuring your UAVs operate safely and efficiently. Systems can be sent to our Madrid facilities, or our qualified technicians can come to your location.
Training Programs
Our extensive training programs for alpha unmanned helicopters include online courses and on-site training at our facilities, equipping users with the necessary knowledge and skills to plan and execute automated missions.Additional modules for BVLOS and advanced maintenance training are also available.
Applications
ISR
Our single-rotor helicopter drones are engineered to deliver top-tier unmanned ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), providing essential situational awareness for enhanced tactical advantages and informed decision-making.
Border Control Drone
Alpha rotary-wing UAVs are perfectly suited for border patrol and surveillance, with the capability to operate multiple units simultaneously to cover extensive areas. Equipped sensors can detect and identify objects such as individuals and vehicles from long distances.
Maritime Security UAV
Maritime Security UAVOur naval drones excel in maritime surveillance,providing support for naval vessels,coast guard operations,oil rigs,and commercial fishing activities. With automated takeoff and landing capabilities, they can operate from moving ships with limited deck space.
Contamination Detection
Contamination DetectionWith extended flight times and substantial payload capacities,Alpha helicopter UAVs are ideally suited for ecological disaster prevention and recovery efforts,both on land and at sea. They can monitor emissions and are equipped with systems that analyze and record air samples, providing real-time testing results.
