Germany’s Bundeswehr equipment office, BAIINBw, signed a contract with Quantum Systems on December 12, 2025. The deal covers the Twister eVTOL drone. It replaces ALADIN, a reconnaissance drone that’s served German forces for decades. The order is a fixed 147 systems, with a framework option for up to 600 more, for a possible total of 747.
What is the Twister actually replacing?
ALADIN has been the Bundeswehr’s squad-level reconnaissance drone for years. The airframe is aging and due for replacement. Twister is an electric VTOL drone with a maximum takeoff weight of 4 kg. It offers about 90 minutes of endurance and a 15 km range. It’s built for the same tactical reconnaissance role at squad and platoon level.
How fast can Quantum Systems actually deliver these?
Quantum Systems has guaranteed at least 250 systems a year. There’s room to scale up further if the Bundeswehr exercises its framework option. The drones will go to the Army, Navy, and Air Force. All three branches will run them through Quantum’s MOSAIC UXS mission software. That software is also designed to keep the new drones interoperable with the existing FALKE reconnaissance system.
What’s the deal actually worth?
Public sources haven’t disclosed a total contract value. What’s confirmed is the unit count: 147 firm, up to 600 more optional. That structure lets Germany lock in an initial batch. It also keeps room to scale the program if Twister performs well in service.
Sources: Vertical Magazine, Defence Industry Europe.
