Urban-Air Port (UAP), a global pioneer in advanced vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launch and logistics infrastructure, has entered a strategic partnership with Axis Aerospace, a leading U.K.-based innovator in bespoke UAV design, development, and operations.
This collaboration is set to redefine global defense capabilities, delivering cutting-edge, dual-use solutions for defense stakeholders and investors seeking transformative, high-return opportunities in future force development.
This marks UAP’s second UAV partnership in 2025, expanding its portfolio of interoperable UAV technologies integrated with its state-of-the-art rapid launch systems.
The partnership focuses on the UAP DBx-A1 and DBx-MP1 — next-generation UAV logistics and launch platforms designed for secure, software-defined, and networked deployment of mission-critical drones in contested environments.
These systems, compatible with reusable and one-way strike UAVs, support small-unit tactics and theater-wide strategic missions, offering unparalleled operational flexibility.
The UAP–Axis partnership positions both companies at the forefront of the rapidly growing defense UAV market, projected to reach $24.2 billion by 2030 (MarketsandMarkets). The DBx suite’s dual-use potential — spanning defense and civilian applications — offers investors and stakeholders a scalable, high-margin opportunity with cross-sector applicability.
“Mass UAV deployment in high-threat environments demands robust, scalable solutions. UAP’s DBx suite delivers secure, rapid, and repeatable launch capabilities, minimizing risk to warfighters while maximizing mission success. Partnering with UAP, we’re able to integrate bespoke UAVs to create a transformative capability that enhances operational tempo and battlefield dominance,” said Angus Benson-Blair, former British Army major, board advisor at Urban-Air Port, and founder of Axis Aerospace
Strategic impact for defense stakeholders
UAP’s DBx-A1 will be revealed at DSEI London, Sept. 9–12, 2025.
The UAP DBx-A1 — compatible with all standard palletized load systems — and the DBx-MP1 streamline logistics, enabling rapid force generation and deployment. Key benefits for defense customers include:
- Rapid force deployment: Deploy multiple Axis-designed and other UAVs from a single, transportable DBx platform, reducing setup time and operational costs.
- Enhanced situational awareness: Real-time ISR capabilities improve battlefield coordination and decision-making.
- Streamlined logistics: Optimized resupply chains enhance mission sustainability.
- Increased survivability: Reduced operational footprint ensures greater stealth and resilience.
- Dual-use scalability: Applications in defense and civilian sectors — such as disaster response and infrastructure monitoring — maximize return on investment for stakeholders.
Proven leadership and expertise
Angus Benson-Blair brings unparalleled expertise to this partnership. A former officer with 18 years in the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, he founded BB Stratus in 2013, pioneering aerial cinematography.
As one of the U.K.’s first 200 commercial drone operators — and the first to secure an Operational Safety Case from the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority — Benson-Blair’s leadership ensures Axis Aerospace delivers battle-ready UAV solutions tailored to UAP’s DBx systems.
“Angus’s deep operational experience and pioneering work in the UK drone industry have been instrumental in shaping our DBx technology. This partnership with Axis Aerospace leverages their custom UAV expertise to deliver mission-optimized solutions, offering defense customers and stakeholders a robust, future-proof platform,” said Ricky Sandhu, founder of Urban-Air Port.
A vision for battlefield dominance
“Our DBx suite is battle-tested, informed by decades of collective experience across global theaters. By integrating Axis’s cutting-edge UAVs, we’re delivering a holistic, cost-effective solution that empowers forces to dominate evolving battlespaces with precision, speed, and scalability. This partnership unlocks significant value for defense customers and investors alike,” said Andrea Wu, CEO of Urban-Air Port
“UAP’s DBx systems demonstrate a clear understanding of operational challenges, offering a forward-thinking approach to UAS integration. Their dual-use potential delivers strategic value to defense and civilian markets, making them a compelling investment for stakeholders seeking innovative, high-impact solutions,” said a British major from Army HQ’s Future Force Development, Army Futures Directorate.
Why this is important
- Market leadership: UAP and Axis are positioned to capture significant market share in the expanding defense and dual-use UAV sectors.
- Scalable technology: The DBx suite’s compatibility with diverse UAVs and civilian applications ensures broad market applicability.
- Operational efficiency: Streamlined logistics and rapid deployment reduce costs and enhance mission success rates.
- Proven expertise: Backed by industry pioneers and military veterans, ensuring reliability and innovation.
- Global reach: Tailored solutions for armed forces worldwide, with immediate relevance to NATO and allied defense strategies.
This memorandum of understanding marks a pivotal step in transforming UAV deployment, offering investors and defense customers a unique opportunity to support a high-growth, high-impact partnership.
For more information, contact Urban-Air Port at invest@urbanairport.com or visit us at DSEI UK 2025, Sept. 9–12 at ExCeL London.
This press release was prepared and distributed by Urban-Air Port.
