Spirit Aeronautical Systems S.A. (SAS) entered into a strategic Representative Agreement with Fulcrum Concepts LLC on January 13, 2025.

This milestone partnership reinforces SAS’s position as a key defence player in Greece, Cyprus, and the Balkans by facilitating the introduction of cutting-edge technologies and fostering innovation in unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) and helicopter modernisation programmes across multiple international defence markets.

Regarding SAS Technology, the company is a UAS manufacturer and a member of the Spirit World Group. Established in 2020, SAS is the first and only Greek company to successfully design, manufacture, and test weaponized drones, including aerial firing trials. Specialising in multipurpose and dual-use aerial systems, SAS excels in integrating advanced weapon systems and developing custom UAS solutions to meet modern operational demands.

SAS’s core business focuses on developing a diverse range of UAS, from fixed-wing MALE UAS prototypes in the 200 kg MTOW category to multicopter systems with

maximum weights ranging from 6 kg to over 60 kg, all capable of carrying a variety of payloads. This versatility allows SAS’s platforms to adapt to a wide spectrum of missions, providing advanced solutions for defence and civilian applications.

Committed to rapid prototyping and tailored solutions, SAS remains at the forefront of innovation in UAS technology. Notably, it was the first company worldwide to successfully conduct a 70mm rocket firing from the SARISA-class drone, a system that was effectively tested and certified in collaboration with Thales BE.

Also read: SAS Technology | Impressive presence at EDEX 2023 – Photos & VIDEO

FULCRUM is a globally recognised defence solutions provider based in Virginia, USA, specialising in aircraft modification, integration, and mission system enhancements for military and special operations aviation.The company delivers cutting-edge engineering, design, and integration solutions for both rotorcraft and fixed-wing platforms.

While Lockheed Martin endorses FULCRUM’s solutions and initiatives, it has developed advanced weaponization and missionisation products that enhance the UH-60 Black Hawk, expanding its operational capabilities for military, law enforcement, and special forces. 

These enhancements include weapons integration, survivability improvements, advanced sensor and avionics upgrades, specialised mission configurations, and structural modifications. One of FULCRUM’s most notable innovations is the Black Hawk CLAW, a modular 2-to-4-station weapons wing that significantly enhances the UH-60 Black Hawk’s armament capabilities. 

This lightweight, adaptable system allows for rapid reconfiguration, providing increased flexibility for a wide range of mission requirements and reinforcing the Black Hawk’s role as a multi-domain operational asset. As part of its continued advancements in firepower integration, FULCRUM has collaborated with Thales to integrate the Thales 2.75-inch (70mm) rocket system, including the FZ275 laser-guided rocket (LGR), onto rotary-wing platforms. 

This integration provides Black Hawk operators with precision-strike capabilities, enabling more effective engagement with ground targets with reduced collateral damage. Additionally, FULCRUM has acquired the GAU-19A/B Gatling Gun from General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, further expanding its expertise in firepower solutions and enhancing the ability to equip aircraft with heavy fire support. 

These developments position FULCRUM as a leader in mission-driven aviation solutions, delivering scalable and adaptable weapon systems for modern combat operations.

Also read: WUAVF | The World UAV Federation visits SAS Technology headquarters

This strategic partnership designates SAS Technology as FULCRUM’s authorised representative for the promotion, marketing, and sales of its products within the agreed territorial area, which includes Greece, Cyprus, and the Balkans.

Under the terms of the agreement, SAS Technology will facilitate the introduction, distribution, and operational integration of FULCRUM’s defence aviation solutions, including weapons integration, rotary-wing enhancements, mission support systems, and custom modifications. 

SAS will also provide market intelligence, regulatory compliance assistance, and customer relationship management, ensuring seamless engagement with prospective clients across the region.

As part of this partnership, SAS will promote and support advanced aviation solutions in the region. This will make sure that military and police forces can get the most up-to-date improvements in weaponry integration, survivability, advanced sensors, avionics, mission-specific configurations, and structural modifications.

In line with FULCRUM’s expertise, SAS will also help adapt and put into operation new rotary-wing technologies, such as improvements for the UH-60 Black Hawk. Along with its already useful partnership with Thales, SAS will be in charge of helping to bring FULCRUM’s advanced firepower solutions, like the GAU-19 Gatling Gun System and its parts, as well as the Thales 2.75-inch (70 mm) rocket system, which includes the FZ275 laser-guided rocket (LGR), to market. 

Also read: SAS Technology | Achieves another milestone on the UCAV SARISA 2.75” rocket fire testing program – Photos & VIDEO

Using its expertise and established partnerships, SAS will ensure that these systems are effectively integrated, supported, and maintained, providing tailored solutions to meet the evolving operational needs of defence and security forces across Greece, Cyprus, and the Balkans.

SAS Technology has consistently demonstrated its expertise in weapons system integration across a wide range of aircraft platforms, earning the trust of major international defence firms. This proven capability has fostered strategic collaborations with leading global defence companies, reinforcing their role in the evolution of aerial warfare solutions.

A prime example is the AIHMI AHM-1X, a stealthy and silent loitering muniƟon developed by SAS to extend the range of 2.75-inch (70mm) rockets. Designed for maximum operational

versatility, the AHM-1X is seamlessly integrated into multiple aerial platforms, including rotary- and fixed-wing UCAVs, MALE UAS, attack helicopters and transport helicopters.

Beyond loitering munitions, SAS develops advanced weapon integration systems into aerial platforms, offering comprehensive manufacturing, maintenance, and operational support services. By modernising aerial assets with precision strike capabilities, the SAS enhances mission adaptability, operational efficiency, and battlefield effectiveness for allied forces.

Also read: SAS Technology | Flight Testing of AIHMI Loitering Munition using UCAV SARISA as a carrier – VIDEO