This drone was produced in Foetz. / © Pierre Weimerskirch
From battlefield testing in Ukraine to expanding domestic production, Luxembourg companies are rapidly advancing their drone technologies for both military and civilian use.
Luxembourg’s growing drone sector
Several Luxembourg-based companies are actively involved in the development and supply of drone technology, with a particular focus on supporting Ukraine. At this week’s international airshow in Le Bourget, French aerospace leaders joined local firms to explore new partnerships aimed at expanding drone production.
Among them is Lux Avia Services, headed by administrator Jérôme Beuclair. Since 2022, the company has been producing drones ranging from 7 to 56 inches in diameter, specifically for use in Ukraine. Beuclair frequently travels to the front lines to collaborate with military brigades, allowing his team to refine and adapt their drones based on direct battlefield feedback.
Jérôme Beuclair shows drones that could be built in Luxembourg to Defence Minister Yuriko Backes. / © Pierre Weimerskirch
His long-term goal is to establish a dedicated drone production facility in Luxembourg, in collaboration with local partners and potentially with backing from the Ministry of Defence.
Scaling up local industrial production
Another key player, LUXUAV, is already manufacturing drones at scale from its facility in Foetz. While the company did not reveal exact figures, it confirmed monthly output in the hundreds. Co-founder and COO Nicolas Van Beek said efforts are underway to further expand production capacity.
Drones for Ukraine are produced in Foetz. / © Pierre Weimerskirch
LUXUAV’s drones are designed for resilience, with a strong emphasis on resistance to jamming and electromagnetic interference. “In conflict zones, traditional manufacturers like DJI no longer hold up,” said Van Beek. The company produces two main types: lightweight drones for close-range frontline operations and larger, longer-range models for reconnaissance missions.
Power and communication via laser
Skygrids, a young Luxembourg startup, is taking a different angle. It specialises in modular laser communication systems for drones and other robotic platforms. These systems not only enable secure data transfer but also allow drones to be recharged wirelessly using laser energy, a feature that could allow for continuous drone deployment during missions.
Laser technology made in Luxembourg. / © Pierre Weimerskirch
Dual-use innovation on the rise
Luxembourg’s drone sector is expanding fast, with innovation targeting both civilian and defence applications. While the University of Luxembourg was not present at Le Bourget, research into dual-use drone technologies is also advancing locally, with solutions that could serve both public and military purposes.
