Bundeswehr loitering munitions RFI, ESA in-space servicing framework, Swiss BAZL UAS update
The Bundeswehr issued an RFI for loitering munitions with a 40 km range envelope and 30-minute loiter time. ESA published its in-space servicing and manufacturing qualification framework. Switzerland's BAZL aligned its UAS operating categories with EASA's updated U-space regulation, effective 1 June.
Bundeswehr issues RFI for loitering munitions, 40 km range, 30-minute loiter
The Bundeswehr Procurement Office issued a Request for Information this week for loitering munitions with a minimum 40 km operational range and 30-minute loiter time. The RFI specifies man-in-the-loop engagement requirements, EO/IR dual-sensor payload, and compatibility with existing ground control infrastructure. RFIs at this stage are typically issued 12–18 months before a formal tender. The requirement is consistent with Germany's 2025 Special Fund allocation for precision strike capabilities and signals a likely tender in late 2026 or early 2027.
Source: Bundeswehr Beschaffungsamt, RFI LM-2026-BWB-011
Technology
ESA publishes ISAM qualification framework, expressions of interest due 31 July 2026
ESA published its In-Space Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM) qualification framework this week, establishing the technical and contractual basis for ESA mission participation in servicing operations. The framework introduces a tiered qualification pathway, demonstration, heritage, and full mission qualification, with corresponding cost and timeline implications for commercial operators. ESA is actively seeking commercial partners for two servicing demonstration missions planned for 2028.
Source: ESA ISAM Qualification Framework, ESA/IPC(2026)14
Regulation
Swiss BAZL aligns UAS operating categories with EASA, effective 1 June 2026
Switzerland's Federal Office of Civil Aviation published updated UAS operating category regulations this week, aligning with EASA's revised U-space regulation that took effect across EU member states in January. The changes harmonise the Swiss Open and Specific category boundary conditions with EASA's standard, and introduce a new authorisation pathway for BVLOS operations in non-segregated airspace. The regulation takes effect 1 June 2026. Swiss-registered operators in the Specific category will need to reconfirm their authorisations under the new framework before that date.
Previous issues
17 March 2026
NATO ISR tender published, Isar Aerospace static fire, EU space defence budget signal
NATO published a competitive tender for persistent ISR UAV systems with a €180M ceiling across four member states. Isar Aerospace completed a full-duration static fire of its Spectrum upper stage. The European Commission's 2026 space defence budget signals a 34% increase in dual-use launch capability funding.
10 March 2026
EASA SC-VTOL amendment, EIC Accelerator Q1 cohort, IMU dual-use thresholds
EASA published SC-VTOL amendment 3, extending the enhanced category to hybrid-electric configurations above 2,000 kg MTOW. The EIC Accelerator Q1 2026 aerospace cohort named seven ventures. The European Commission published updated dual-use guidance clarifying IMU performance thresholds under Annex I.