Exail awarded strategic European defense contract to supply DriX USVs for ISR missions

DriX USVs for ISR missions. (Exail)

This contract marks a major milestone in the operational deployment of DriX (standard version) for ISR missions

Exail has secured a strategic defense contract with a European nation for the delivery of a fleet of five DriX H-8 Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs).

These USVs will be deployed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, reinforcing maritime situational awareness, and supporting the protection of key maritime routes.

It is the largest order to date for Exail’s DriX platform and reflects the growing adoption of uncrewed surface systems by naval and maritime security forces. It also underscores the shift towards integrating mature, autonomous platforms into modern ISR.

Originally developed for hydrographic missions, the DriX H-8 USV is a proven, mature platform designed to operate in both shallow and deep waters. Its versatility enables it to execute a wide range of maritime missions, both civilian and military. The platform has already been trusted by major naval forces including the U.S. Navy and the French Navy and has demonstrated robust performance during key multinational operations such as NATO’s REPMUS or Taks Force X exercises.

“We are honored by the trust placed in us by this European partner,” said Jérôme Bendell, Head of Exail Maritime Systems Business line. “This contract highlights the growing strategic need for unmanned maritime ISR capabilities, and we are proud that DriX has been selected to meet that challenge. It is also a recognition of DriX’s maturity, reliability and operational impact. At Exail, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in support of global maritime security.”