Siegen, Germany — As part of ongoing global expansion, Microdrones today announced a merger with Schübeler Technologies. Since its founding in 1997, Schübeler has built a global business by providing advanced fan propulsion jets and lightweight composite materials fabrication.

Offering a full product lineup of robust turbo fans, jets, compressors, pumps, electric motors, carbon fiber and aluminum composites, Schübeler products are designed to withstand extreme conditions and demanding field use. These components provide thrust power and lightweight durability to high tech applications including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), professional motorsports and heavy duty outdoor equipment.

Microdrones, founded in 2005, has enjoyed rapid growth, evolving from the world’s first manufacturer of commercial grade unmanned vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, to a provider of fully integrated systems for surveying, mapping, LiDAR and inspection applications. These systems are being put to use worldwide by professionals in the construction, mining, energy, agriculture and infrastructure trades.

According to Microdrones President Vivien Heriard-Dubreuil, “We make life easier for professionals by offering the full solution; it has proven to be a successful strategy. Perfectly integrated drones, sensors, software, workflow, training and support is what the market needed. Welcoming the Schübeler team, talent and capabilities to Microdrones delivers new aviation technology and capabilities to our customers in the form of next generation unmanned aircraft.”

As the preferred provider of VTOL solutions to Trimble Dealers worldwide, Microdrones adds a global sales force and distribution network as well as technical centers and production sitesspanning seven countries and three continents. Daniel Schübeler, founder and CEO of Schübeler Technologies, explains,“Merging with Microdrones empowers us to develop and deliver systems where we can best support customers locally. This is a happy homecoming for me and the team that we’ve built over the past twenty years.”

Daniel Schübeler was an original founding partner in Microdrones and helped develop the pioneering technology that helped Microdrones gain global recognition as the first professional VTOL UAVs. He adds, “Both of these companies have enjoyed global growth and impressive technological advancements independently — merging our talents and teams will yield amazing solutions in the years to come.”

Francois Gerner, SVP of Corporate Affairs at Microdrones, adds, “This is a strategic growth initiative. We are adding technology, IP, talent, strong leadership and investment capabilities that are complementary to both brands. This deal brings us to more than 150 highly skilled employees worldwide, which translates to better products, service and support.”

In addition to expanding the Microdrones team and family of products, the merged companies will also retain the Schübeler Technologies brand, which commands a niche’ audience of serious aeromodelling enthusiasts, according to the companies. Schübeler Technologies will continue to serve these markets as well as tackle large scale custom R&D projects related to propulsion and materials.