Babcock has officially entered into a partnership with French aircraft manufacturer AURA AERO to collaboratively develop cutting-edge electric training aircraft equipped with aerobatic capabilities. This agreement was unveiled at the Paris Air Show and highlights a shared commitment to advancing aviation technology while focusing on sustainability.
The partnership encompasses a comprehensive range of services, including technical and logistical support, training, and operational assistance. By merging AURA AERO’s expertise in electric aviation with Babcock’s extensive experience in pilot training within dynamic and mission-critical environments, the collaboration aims to create a fully integrated solution centered around AURA AERO’s innovative INTEGRAL aircraft. This initiative is expected not only to enhance pilot training but also to contribute to broader emissions reduction goals within the aviation sector.
Jérémy Caussade, President and co-founder of AURA AERO, emphasized the suitability of the INTEGRAL aircraft for military applications, stating, “Modern, sustainable and versatile, INTEGRAL is a family of aircraft that provides a perfect fit for the selection and the training of military pilots and their daily operations.”
The INTEGRAL aircraft is designed with advanced avionics and digital systems capable of recording flight data, allowing for comprehensive post-flight analysis of both pilot and aircraft performance. Additionally, it includes a whole-aircraft emergency parachute system, enhancing safety for pilots during training missions.
To cater to various training requirements, the INTEGRAL family features three different variants. The INTEGRAL R, equipped with a tailwheel setup and a 210-horsepower Lycoming engine, is tailored for basic training and aerobatic maneuvers. The INTEGRAL S, which has a nosewheel configuration and a 180-horsepower Lycoming engine, also supports aerobatic training. The INTEGRAL E stands out as an all-electric model, powered by Safran’s certified ENGINeUS electric motor, allowing for one hour of flight time and a rapid 30-minute charging capability.
Caussade highlighted the advantages of adopting the all-electric INTEGRAL E, noting that it could enable armed forces to reduce their operating costs by half for many missions, facilitating a shift toward decarbonization within military aviation. This partnership between Babcock and AURA AERO represents a significant step forward in the evolution of training aircraft, combining modern technology, sustainability, and enhanced pilot training capabilities.
