The American company Thunderstrike Aviation has just inaugurated a new hangar at HCA Airport. HCA Airport (Hans Christian Andersen Airport) is a small airport serving the Danish city of Odense. The new hangar will be used for the development and testing of the company’s state-of-the-art drone technology. At the inauguration of the hangar, it was further announced that Thunderstrike has ambitious plans of further expanding their hangar with a drone production, where they will eventually produce between 200-300 drones a year. The drone production is expected to open in 2025. This marks a significant milestone for both Thunderstrike Aviation, UAS Denmark Test Center and HCA Airport, further solidifying the area’s position as a leading hub for advanced drone technology. The construction of the new facility is expected to be completed by next year with full-scale operations commencing before the end of 2025.
“At UAS Denmark Test Center, we definitely see Thunderstrike as an important addition to the drone ecosystem at HCA Airport just as we see it as yet another milestone in our efforts to advancing the drone technology of tomorrow, “says Michael Larsen, Head of UAS Denmark Test Centre.
Several factors have influenced the decision to place the production facility at HCA Airport in Odense. The region’s highly skilled workforce and the substantial backing from both local and national governments. Odense is also already recognized for its strong robotics and drone ecosystem, and the establishment of Thunderstrike Aviation’s production facility further solidifies its standing as a leader within this area. The production facility, covering 3,000 square meters, is expected to produce approximately 200 drones annually and employ approximately 30-50 people.
At the inauguration two versions of Thunderstrike Aviation’s Fantom MK2 were on display – a fixed wing (FW) and one with VTOL capacity. The drone technology is engineered for a range of applications, including military surveillance, border patrol, and civil protection. Its advanced capabilities include flight endurance exceeding 30 hours and a maximum span of 3,000 kilometers. What sets this drone apart is its large size and impressive payload of 45 kilograms. This versatility allows it to accommodate a wide range of equipment, enhancing its overall flexibility.
