Ondas announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Rotron Aero, a UK-based developer of advanced unmanned aerial systems and long-range autonomous platforms designed for extended-reach operations and autonomous strike missions.
Ondas, which operates its defense-focused Ondas Autonomous Systems business unit alongside private wireless solutions under Ondas Networks, said the deal is intended to strengthen its defense and security offering through a broader system-of-systems architecture. The company said the combined platform will incorporate long-range unmanned aerial vehicles, autonomous strike platforms, propulsion and engineering capabilities, integrated command-and-control technologies, and an established footprint in the UK market.
Ondas said integrating Rotron’s technology will add next-generation, attritable one-way autonomous attack systems with long-range strike capabilities that can operate within Ondas’ existing systems architecture. The company positioned the acquisition as a response to demand for cost-effective, scalable technology for contested environments, aiming to enhance operational flexibility and reduce personnel risk.
Rotron Aero, founded in 2008, is described as a vertically integrated defense technology company operating within the secure UK defense ecosystem, spanning rapid prototyping through industrialization. Ondas said Rotron’s portfolio includes long-endurance dual-use vertical take-off and landing systems and next-generation uncrewed combat aerial vehicles designed for precision autonomous engagement and extended operational reach. Ondas highlighted the Talon multi-role VTOL series and the Defendor one-way autonomous attack system, which it said are powered by Rotron’s proprietary engines and fan drive systems.
Ondas said the combined company will be positioned to deliver coordinated autonomous strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, counter-unmanned aerial systems, and ground support capabilities as part of an integrated defense technology stack. Following closing, Rotron’s team and technology are expected to be integrated into Ondas Autonomous Systems to support existing defense programs and enable new long-range autonomous attack deployments for military, government, and allied customers.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Ondas said consideration will be a combination of cash and stock.
KEY QUOTES
“Modern conflicts demand systems that can operate at range, persist over time, and execute missions without continuous human control. Rotron Aero will strengthen Ondas’ ability to deliver long-range autonomous attack platforms as part of a fully integrated system-of-systems. This acquisition will accelerate our roadmap toward providing customers with end-to-end autonomous mission capability, from sensing and decision-making through long-range precision engagement.”
Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO, Ondas
“This acquisition is a direct execution of our Strategic Growth Plan, targeting high-growth scalers in new geographies with deeply synergistic platforms and elite engineering talent.”
“By integrating Rotron’s propulsion technology and its precision platforms purpose-built for critical mission requirements, we will expand our multi-domain system-of-systems into a more comprehensive global solutions portfolio tailored to the evolving demands of our current and future customers. This move will secure a vital strategic footprint within the UK and NATO ecosystems, providing fast-track access to major programs through deep-rooted relationships with the UK Ministry of Defence. This acquisition is a pivotal step in our trajectory toward becoming a recognized leader in our core defense markets.”
Mark Green, Global Head of Corporate Development and M&A, Ondas
“Joining the Ondas family marks a transformative milestone for Rotron and our vision for the future of unmanned systems. By combining our propulsion and aerial platform expertise with Ondas’ autonomous systems architecture and global reach, we will create powerful synergies that will accelerate the delivery of next-generation defense solutions. We are excited to leverage Ondas’ deep resources and scale to bring our mission-specific platforms to a broader global stage, providing defence forces with the innovative, cost-effective capabilities required on the modern battlefield.”
Gilo Cardozo, Founder, Rotron
