The German Armed Forces has commissioned AVILUS to carry out the ‘Grille’ rescue drone innovation project. The contract, signed with the Bundeswehr in early April 2026, marks an important step in the expansion of unmanned aerial capabilities, which will be of central importance for medical evacuation missions and logistical operations in the future.
The innovation project, entitled ‘Unmanned Qualified Patient Transport by Air’, involves the provision of two unmanned aerial systems, as well as the conduct of flight trials and operator training. The aim is to tailor the system precisely to the specific requirements of the armed forces through practical testing with the Bundeswehr Medical Service.
The programme begins with a training phase for service personnel, followed by intensive flight operations. This testing therefore serves not only to develop innovative technologies such as the ‘Grille’, but also to tailor modern, unmanned systems specifically to the requirements of a seamless rescue chain.
Colonel-General (Medical) Dr Ralf Hoffmann, Commander of the Bundeswehr Central Medical Service, emphasised with regard to the Grille: “Innovative solutions are more important than ever to ensure a resilient and effective rescue chain in the future.” Niclas Bähr, CEO of AVILUS, explained: “We are proud to be taking this step together with the Bundeswehr and to be contributing to the future and resilience of the rescue chain.”
Source: German Arme4d Forces
