This week’s drone news
Between defense contracts and the struggle for survival: While Rheinmetall counters drone swarms and Volocopter presents new owners, volatile stock market prices and EASA updates are causing unrest. Here's what's been happening in the drone economy over the last few days.
Figures of the week
– 1.5 billion euros: That’s how much capital Lilium used up before going bankrupt, a warning sign for the industry.
– 180: The number of employees remaining at Volocopter after restructuring.
– 50 – Red Cat Holdings suffered a nearly 50 percent drop in its share price after analysts warned of overvaluation.
– 2025/1065 – This is the reference number under which EASA lists the updated EU regulation that sets new standards for the “Specific Category” with immediate effect.
India procures additional Heron MK-II drones
December 1, 2025: At the beginning of the month, it was announced that the Indian armed forces (army, air force, and navy) had initiated the procurement of additional Heron MK-II drones from IAI. The decision follows “Operation Sindoor” and makes use of emergency procurement clauses. The Heron MK-II is a MALE UAV with a maximum take-off weight of 1,430 kilograms. The focus is now on local production in cooperation with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in order to significantly increase the “Make in India” quota in the defense sector.
Source: https://risingkashmir.com/india-moves-to-procure-more-heron-mk-ii-drones-post-operation-sindoor/
Volocopter saved by Chinese investor
November 29, 2025: Following the bankruptcy of its competitor Lilium, there is news of hope for Volocopter. The Bruchsal-based company, which recently had to make massive job cuts, has found a new owner in Chinese automotive supplier Wanfeng. Wanfeng, already the owner of Diamond Aircraft, plans to bring Volocopter technology to market. Although the workforce has shrunk to around 180 employees, financing for EASA certification now appears to be secured.
EASA publishes update to Easy Access Rules
November 28, 2025: The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) published a revision of the Easy Access Rules for airworthiness and environmental protection on Friday. The document (Regulation EU 2025/1065) specifies the technical requirements for the certification of UAS in the Specific Category. These adjustments are essential for manufacturers and operators in Europe, as they have a direct impact on design verification processes and noise protection requirements. Compliance with these updated standards is now a prerequisite for new operating licenses in European airspace.
Rheinmetall positions HERO drones against Lancet swarms
November 27, 2025: Düsseldorf-based defense contractor Rheinmetall is responding to the changed threat situation on NATO’s eastern flank. As the company confirmed on Wednesday, its “HERO” loitering munitions – originally developed by Israeli partner UVision – are intended to be the technological answer to Russian Lancet drone swarms. The systems have been specially adapted for the European market and will be manufactured under license in the future. Experts see this as a decisive step toward tactical air superiority for small units.
Red Cat Holdings under stock market pressure
November 27, 2025: Despite operational successes, Red Cat Holdings (RCAT) shares experienced a significant correction on Thursday. Analysts had previously pointed to an overvaluation, which led to a price decline of almost 50 percent. For investors and partners of the company, which specializes in military drones (SRR program), this is a warning signal to closely monitor volatility in the defense sector. The share price settled at around $7.33, raising questions about long-term capitalization for upcoming large orders.
