Hynaero leverages ONERA’s expertise in developing the Fregate-F100, a Franco-European amphibious water bomber aircraft

HYNAERO, the Bordeaux-based start-up, and ONERA (Office national d’études et de recherches aérospatiales) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of the new generation amphibious water bomber aircraft, the Fregate-F100.

The protocol, signed in Mérignac on 05/31/2024, signifies the intention of the two partners to collaborate in the design phases of the Fregate-100 aircraft, focusing on MDAO (Modelling and Design Analysis Optimization), applied aerodynamics, human-machine interface, flight control technologies, ground vibration tests, mission systems, and data management.

“We are delighted to solidify this partnership with ONERA, a globally renowned institute in the aerospace sector,” stated Cedric Savineau, co-founder and Technical and Industrial Director of HYNAERO. “This agreement represents significant scientific and engineering support that will facilitate substantial progress in the next phases of our development program.”

Franck Lefevre, Technical General Director of ONERA, commented: “HYNAERO’s next-generation amphibious aircraft project, operating in highly demanding flight environments, presents a real challenge for our scientific teams. As experts in the aerospace sector, ONERA, under the supervision of the DGA (Directorate General of Armaments), is committed to addressing civil security challenges, including combating forest fires, in accordance with its public service mission.”

About HYNAERO

HYNAERO, a Bordeaux-based start-up, manages the European program FREGATE-F100, a water bomber seaplane that offers unmatched cargo capacity and autonomy in the market for such aircraft, along with integrated predictive maintenance. It provides private and institutional operators with a modern aircraft that meets the challenges posed by the increasing incidence of large fires worldwide and the need to protect our forests, which are our carbon reservoirs.

The Fregate-F100 will restore European and French sovereignty in aerial firefighting capabilities and fully aligns with France’s goals of industrial revitalization.

About ONERA, French Aerospace Research Center

ONERA, a central player in aerospace research, employs approximately 2000 people. Under the supervision of the French Ministry of Armed Forces, it has a budget of 289 million euros (2023), with more than half coming from commercial contracts. As a state expert, ONERA prepares for the defense challenges of the future, responds to future aerospace challenges, and contributes to the competitiveness of the aerospace industry. ONERA masters all disciplines and technologies of the sector. Its DNA is found in all major civil and military aerospace programs in France and Europe: Ariane, Airbus, Falcon, Rafale, missiles, helicopters, engines, radars… Internationally recognized and often awarded, its researchers train numerous PhD students.

Sources

• ONERA press release