As European defense forces shift toward attritable mass and sovereign supply chains, the ability to rapidly manufacture uncompromised hardware has become as critical as the hardware itself.
The strategic landscape of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and loitering munitions is evolving rapidly. High-intensity scenarios have proven that relying on slow-moving, boutique manufacturing lines and vulnerable global supply chains is a critical operational risk. Defense planners demand systems that are highly capable, but more importantly, systems that can be produced in the thousands, reliably, and without reliance on non-allied vendors.
Blackteq was established precisely to close this gap between advanced drone technology and industrial-scale manufacturing.
The Synthesis of Engineering and Avionics
Blackteq represents a unique joint venture that combines decades of heavy engineering experience with cutting-edge military avionics and software integration.
Co-founder Michael Kügelgen, a mechanical engineer and pilot with over 40 years of experience in general aviation and drone engineering, brings an unparalleled depth of expertise in rapid prototyping, specialized composite manufacturing, and airframe design. His background ensures that the COBRA family is not merely a conceptual design, but a highly optimized aerodynamic platform built for mass production.
Complementing this mechanical foundation is co-founder André Komp, an electronics and software developer with over two decades of military hardware experience. With a deep understanding of NATO-level requirements, electronic warfare (EW) hardening, and the necessity of rigorous multi-domain testing environments, Komp ensures that the COBRA systems integrate seamlessly with modern C2 architectures and survive in heavily contested electromagnetic spectrums.
Sovereign Supply Chains: "China-Free" by Design
A core philosophy underpinning Blackteq's manufacturing strategy is the absolute elimination of supply chain vulnerabilities. The MK 110 COBRA system is strictly "China-Free," utilizing materials and components sourced exclusively within the European Union.
This strategic autonomy guarantees that NATO and EU armed forces will not face critical bottlenecks or security compromises regarding propulsion, flight controllers, or structural materials. By maintaining a sovereign supply chain, Blackteq ensures unbroken readiness and long-term security of supply.
Highly Automated Manufacturing
To meet the volume requirements of modern combat operations, traditional hand-laid composite drone manufacturing is insufficient. Blackteq has engineered a highly automated production architecture specifically for the COBRA airframes.
By utilizing advanced foam and carbon-reinforced composite techniques, the entire airframe can be manufactured fully automatically in just a few minutes. This specialized manufacturing process—supported by Blackteq's development center in Grafschaft and manufacturing partners near Cologne—allows production to scale rapidly. Current capacities support up to 500 units per month, with near-term scaling capabilities targeting up to 5,000 units per month utilizing injection molding techniques.
This means field commanders do not have to compromise between mass and capability. They receive hardened, low-signature, multi-role loitering munitions at a volume that ensures tactical overmatch.
For discussions on procurement, industrial scaling, and integration into existing defense architectures, please contact the Blackteq Defense Team.
