TEKEVER, a pan-European technology company specialising in autonomous systems based on artificial intelligence, has signed a contract with the Portuguese Air Force, which will now have access to the AR5 system’s autonomous capabilities for surveillance missions. The contract also includes operator training, as well as the supply of the Ground Control Station and the ATLAS mission system.
This contract represents a decisive step toward the immediate strengthening of the Portuguese Air Force’s operational capabilities and the ongoing modernisation of its air assets, with the delivery of the systems and the achievement of initial operational capability already scheduled for this coming September.
The AR5 system will enable the Portuguese Air Force to enhance its operational autonomy on long-range missions. The platforms will be deployed on maritime surveillance, security, and defence missions; monitoring of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ); and support for public interest missions, including the Special Rural Firefighting Unit (DECIR), coastal security, and environmental protection.
To ensure the autonomous and effective use of this new capability, TEKEVER will implement a comprehensive knowledge transfer programme. Initial training for Air Force personnel will be completed by September, coinciding with the delivery of the systems. A second phase of training will take place in October, consolidating full operational readiness and the development of new skills among the operational teams.
Tenente-Coronel Luís Henriques, Operational Coordinator of the Portuguese Air Force’s AR5 Working Group, stated:
“The integration of the AR5 system represents a significant enhancement of the Portuguese Air Force’s operational capabilities. This platform meets current surveillance, security, and defence requirements, providing greater range, endurance, and operational flexibility. Its integration will strengthen the nation’s capacity to monitor the Exclusive Economic Zone and support a wide range of public interest missions.”
Pedro Petiz, Director of Strategic Development at TEKEVER, added:
“This contract puts an autonomous capability developed and produced in Portugal to work in protecting our airspace and maritime territory. In addition to supplying the aircraft, we will cooperate with the Portuguese Air Force to consolidate and develop its own operational capability, which will strengthen national autonomy, readiness, and response capacity.”
