Airbus Defence and Space and Landing Zones announced a strategic partnership at the Farnborough International Airshow to expand advanced uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) simulation and training capabilities in Canada — a deal that pairs Airbus investment and board representation with Landing Zones’ drone-threat emulation technology.
Why it matters: The partnership deepens Airbus’s Canadian footprint while giving a homegrown UAS company European backing to scale up large-scale battlefield simulation for Canada and its allies.
The details:
- Airbus is investing in Landing Zones and taking a seat on its board of directors.
- The deal builds on existing backing from the Business Development Bank of Canada’s StrongNorth Fund.
- Landing Zones will also act as a dedicated representative for Airbus Defence and Space Services in Canada.
What they’re saying:
- Landing Zones Founder and CEO Spence Fraser said the investment will accelerate the company’s threat emulation technology aimed at proliferating drone threats on modern battlefields.
- Airbus Defence and Space Head of Air Power Jean-Brice Dumont said the partnership adds live training simulation capabilities — including advanced glide targets — and expands training services across North America.
The capabilities: The partnership focuses on realistic, large-scale simulation solutions, including advanced glide targets and system verification against emerging threats, to help prepare Canada and allied forces for drone-heavy battlefields.
The bigger picture: The investment also supports Airbus’s obligations under Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy tied to the Strategic Tanker Transport Capability (STTC) program, which covers four new A330 MRTT aircraft and the conversion of five used A330-200s.
By the numbers: Airbus employs more than 5,300 people in Canada, with operations spanning commercial aircraft, helicopters, defence, and space built over 40 years.